| The Vallee de la Durance |
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The Vallee de la Durance
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The Vallee de la Durance - Les Mées
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| The Vallee de la Durance is the major axis of communication between the Alpes and the Mediterranean. |
All the small towns are scattered around the rich geological resources of the region between the mountains and the valleys. The Geological Reserve was created in 1984, to both protect this extraordinary patrimony and highlight its immense value. It can be truly thought of as an huge natural museum under the sky. Three museums, allied to the history of the planet Earth, have been created at Digne, Castellane and Sisteron.
SISTERON. Since its origin, the town has played a defensive and |
strategic role. Built overlooking the Durance, this charming old village with its maze of paths descending towards the Durance, is typically Provencal and well-worth seeing.
TO SEE:
The Citadel, is the kingpin of Sisteron. Perched on a spur, it has always served as a defense against invaders. The oldest parts date back to the 13th century. Of interest is the Notre Dame des Pommiers Cathedral dating from 13th century and the Tour de l’Horloge with its wrought-iron bell-tower. The Musee Terre et Temps is one of museographical axis of the Geological Reserve of Haute Provence. It exhibits the different methods invented by Man to measure time.
Surroundings :
In the south, on the left bank of the Durance, can be found spectacular geological formations of Penitents des Mees.
The ensemble consists of a narrow alignment of immense sandstone blocks leaning against the plateau of Valensole. This natural work of art has been sculptured by erosion some 25 million years ago. |
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