Entrepierres combines a striking gorge landscape with traces of several centuries of history. Between the mountains of La Baume and Adrech, the small Riou du Jabron stream forms a gorge that connects the village with the higher hamlet of Mézien. Churches, historic buildings and the history of other hamlets give the area a distinct cultural focus. Regional produce and visits to a local producer’s farm add to the mix—different themes to consider when planning your stay.
The gorge and medieval village centre
Entrepierres is a medieval village in a gorge known locally as the “Détroit.” In the background, a rocky outcrop creates a striking setting. The gorge also connects the village with Mézien, a hamlet at a higher elevation. The landscape and the places along the Riou du Jabron are thus an integral part of Entrepierres. If you are interested in local history, you can explore this geographical connection alongside the churches and buildings, rather than limiting your visit to a single historic site.
Churches and protected buildings
The Pont de la Reine Jeanne was built in the 16th century in the bed of the Vançon River and is associated with Joanna I of Anjou, Queen of Provence and Naples. It is listed as a historic site and protected as a historic monument. The bridge is open daily throughout the year; check access conditions before your visit. For a short excursion, a round-trip walk leads from the bridge to the hamlet of Saint-Symphorien.
Saint-Symphorien is now a ghost village. Its residents left the hamlet gradually; in 1973, it was incorporated into the commune of Entrepierres. The short round-trip walk is also an opportunity to learn about the history of an abandoned hamlet. Saint Mark’s, dating from the 17th century, is a different kind of church: its bell tower and vaulted entrance define its architectural character. The parish church, built of light-coloured stone, stands in the heart of Entrepierres. The Church of Saint Jean is located above the hamlet of Mézien. The Church of Saint Gervais et Protais was probably built in the second half of the 17th century, when the parish seat was moved.
The Vilhosc crypt
The crypt of the Prieuré de Vilhosc is an 11th-century remnant and a remarkable example of early Romanesque architecture. Its triple apse and massive pillars give the building a distinctive architectural form. A movable, rounded, smooth stone is set in the centre of one of the pillars. The apse rests on about a dozen sandstone columns. The pilgrimage to the crypt is also part of the site’s history: it took place in the 12th century.
Local produce and visits
La ferme d’Urtis in Entrepierres produces organic beef, eggs, fruit and vegetables, as well as honey. Baskets of local products are also sold directly. In the hamlet of Mézien, the farm sells its products at the market on Sunday mornings during the summer season. As the market is seasonal, it is advisable to check the dates in advance.
Free visits to the production facility are available at Spiruline Solaire. They last about an hour and must be booked; seasonal conditions may apply. Other options include a picnic on the farm and tasting fresh spirulina at lunchtime. If you would like to include these activities in your stay, check the booking requirements and seasonal conditions in advance.
Discover more destinations: Céreste, Lurs, Villeneuve, Mezel, La Foux, La Condamine-Châtelard, Jausiers, Thorame-Haute
View the wider travel guide: Alpes-De-Haute-Provence.
