Below the Lure mountain, Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues recalls the travelling traders who sold local plants. A village visit can be extended towards Notre-Dame de Lure, a separate stop higher in the mountains.
A village at the foot of Lure
Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues lies at the foot of the mountain of Lure. It appears in the 11th century, the villages of Saint-Étienne and the hamlet of Les Orgues merge in the 14th century, giving the name of the town. Its territory extends from the Laye valley where the village lies to the top of the mountain of Lure. The Black Death and the soldiers of Raymond of Turenne devastate the country, so that the village is deserted in the 15th century, but reoccupied later.
The memory of herbal traders
During the 18th century the village
grew and prospered through the trade in medicinal herbs. In the off-season,
the men collected herbs on the Montagne de Lure, then became peddlers and
sometimes travelled far across France or abroad. The most enterprising grew wealthier, became druggists and built fine houses in the village.
Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues has retained the atmosphere of a prosperous and respectable Provençal village, which gives it its charm.
Notre-Dame de Lure, a mountain outing
Perched high on the slopes of the Montagne de Lure (1200 meters), the church of Notre-Dame-de-Lure lies in a secluded valley in the shade of beautiful trees. An abbey was built here in the Middle Ages, but was gradually abandoned. A hermitage was built in the 17th century and the church was restored.
Planning your visit
The village and Notre-Dame de Lure are separate stops. At higher altitude, bring clothing suited to the weather and check access conditions. Consult the municipality or tourist office for walks and events.
Accommodation
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Coming to Saint-Étienne-les-Orgues
GPS coordinates 44°02'48'' N - 5°46'52'' E
Location : 1200 inhabitants, altitude 660 meters, 4 miles from Ongles, 6 miles from Notre-Dame-de-Lure, 8 miles from Forcalquier, 8 miles from Sigonce, 10 miles from Mane, 11 miles from Banon, 17 miles from Simiane-la-Rotonde, 18 miles from Sisteron, 20 miles from Manosque