The history of Moustiers

A village steeped in history, between cliffs and light

Listed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie has a thousand-year-old history that still shapes its exceptional charm today. Nestling on the side of a cliff, this village was founded in the 5th century by monks from the Lérins Islands, off the coast of Cannes. These monks settled in a cave nestling in the rock. They founded a troglodytic monastery: it is from this Latin ‘monasterium’ that Moustiers takes its name.

A rich heritage

Over the centuries, the village has grown up around its parish church, Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, a jewel of Provençal Romanesque art. Its 12th-century Lombard bell tower proudly dominates the village’s pink-tiled roofs and is one of its best-known visual landmarks. Moustiers has two listed monuments: the church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption and the chapel of Notre-Dame de Beauvoir.

The Adou torrent, which runs through the old town centre, has long been a vital resource for local economic development. From the Middle Ages onwards, water power enabled the construction of several mills. These were first used to grind grain and produce flour, then to power craft workshops. This network encouraged activities such as paper-making, dyeing and leather-working, helping to make Moustiers an active and prosperous town.

Earthenware

But it was from the 17th century onwards that Moustiers-Sainte-Marie gained international renown thanks to the boom in earthenware. Inspired by Chinese porcelain and Italian know-how, this fine, glazed ceramic, often decorated in cobalt blue on a white background, was a great success, even at the court of King Louis XIV. Today, several earthenware workshops continue this exceptional tradition of craftsmanship, which visitors can discover during demonstrations or by pushing open the doors of the village’s galleries and boutiques.

Moustiers is also a spectacular natural setting. Sandwiched between two high limestone cliffs, it is overlooked by a golden star hanging 227 metres high from a chain between the rocks. Legend has it that this star was hung by a knight as an ex-voto on his return from a crusade. This mysterious symbol has become a strong emblem of the village.

© OT Moustiers

Today, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie attracts visitors with its rich heritage, exceptional natural setting and authentic Provencal atmosphere. It is an ideal base from which to explore the Gorges du Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, the lavender fields of the Valensole plateau and the hiking trails leading to the cliffside chapel of Notre-Dame de Beauvoir.

Moustiers is much more than just a village: it’s a must-see destination in Provence, combining culture, nature and living traditions. To discover all its secrets, join a guided tour with Lucas, our tour guide.