Dauphin (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence)

Dauphin is a commune with 804 inhabitants ( 1 January 2011) in the department of Alpes- de -Haute -Provence, Provence- Alpes- Côte d' Azur.

Geography

The municipality of Dauphin in the northeast of the Luberon is located at the mouth of the river Laye in the Largue, about 60 kilometers north-east of Aix -en- Provence. The municipality is part of the Regional Natural Park of Luberon.

History

The region around Dauphin was inhabited in Roman times. The place was on the side of the road the Via Domitia, a Roman road linking Italy to Spain. Near the church a necropolis with 1500 Gallo- Roman tombs were found.

Dauphin was first mentioned in 1125 as castrum delphinum. In the late Middle Ages, the town experienced as the seat of the Counts of Provence an upswing.

Population

Attractions

The Old Town

The picturesque old town of light limestone is situated on a wooded hill and resembles a fort. It dates from the 15th century. In the center of the village is one of the fortified farmhouses typical of the region from the 15th century.

The Castle

From the castle of the Counts of Provence, a tower remains, the main building (built in the late 16th century ) and a portal.

Church of St. Martin

The Church of St. Martin dates from the 12th and 16th century and was built on the former castle chapel. She has a remarkable vaulted ceiling and a beautiful fireplace steeple green scales

Economy

The main industries of the town are tourism and agriculture. In the region, especially olive trees are grown and processed olives. The region is known for its olive oil.

Traffic

Dauphin is situated near the A45.