“You come to Sainte-Agnès to reach the sky. The 360° panorama from the medieval garden is well worth the effort of climbing the rocky peak. An absolute must.”
Sainte-Agnès
A Picturesque Medieval Village
with old-world charm
With its 1,169 inhabitants, the Provençal village of Sainte-Agnès has an incredible charm! The old stone houses have contributed to its status as one of the “Plus Beau Village de France” (Most beautiful village in France). The village’s authenticity has been preserved, notably thanks to its arched passageways and beautiful 15th century houses, set against a backdrop of mountains. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you will soon understand what makes this village so special… Only 10 kilometres from Menton, this is an escape to times gone by.
Must-see Attractions
in Sainte-AgnèsThe remains of the chateau & medieval garden
An ancient fortified chateau overlooks the village, with a medieval garden nestling behind its ramparts. Constructed in the 12th century on a rocky peak, it offers a striking view of the bay of Menton and its coastline. A coveted sentinel, the chateau has long been an unassailable look out for the village’s enemies.
Alongside is the medieval garden, flourishing in the mild sunny climate of the Menton region, where the Mediterranean plants are at their best. Restored to its former glory by the Peintres du Soleil association, it includes a garden of virtues, taste and fragrance, and a Fountain of Life.
Sainte-Agnès Fort
As the southern bastion of the Maginot Line, the fort is a real underground city, dug deep into the rock. During the Second World War, this structure was used to defend the region against the Italian army. Made up of an entrance block, two artillery blocks, two infantry blocks and an observation block, it was home to some 300 to 400 men, who were completely self-sufficient, for a period of three months. Today, it is a museum, open to the public, which explains all about its military history.
Two outstanding chapels
Among the churches and chapels built in Sainte-Agnès throughout history, two deserve a special mention. Let’s start with the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, featuring varnished glazed tiles. Rebuilt in the 16th century in the new village, it contains some extraordinary treasures.
Also, don’t miss Saint-Sébastien Chapel, at the entrance to the village. Sebastian, a Roman martyr, was invoked at the time to fight against the plague and epidemics. By building the monument in 1610, the people of Saint-Agnés hoped to ward off one of the most disastrous plagues of the time.
Local Life and Events
in Sainte-Agnès
In addition to its shops, village life is filled with activities and events throughout the year. At the end of July, the Lavender Festival brings the whole village together for a number of events including a craft market, lavender distillation, musical entertainment, mass at Notre-Dame-des-Neiges. In mid-August, the medieval festival with its street performances and re-enactments will take you back to the time of the knights.
TAKE A STROLL!
Stroll through its streets, admiring the flower-adorned houses built on a slope. There are a number of arts and craft shops to explore. Stained glass, pottery, ceramics, paintings. Discover a rich local heritage!
Notre-Dame des Neiges
Admire the gilded wooden tabernacle, the statue of Saint Agnès, the different paintings by unnamed artists, probably from the Menton school of painting, and two chandeliers from the Cathedral in Monaco, donated by the Sovereign Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace of Monaco.
Routes
on foot and on the back of a donkey
The Chemin de Sainte-Agnès (a 2-hour trip in one direction) links the village to Menton via the Col de Garde. It was the old track used by the inhabitants to get down to Menton. You can either walk or ride on the back of a donkey. From Saint-Sébastien Chapel, there are several routes leading up to the peaks of Mont Ours (1,239 m), Mont Méras (1,243 m), Pic du Baudon (1,264 m) and Pointe du Siricocca (1,051 m).
Hiking around Sainte-Agnès
Several enchanting hiking trails wind their way through the area around Sainte-Agnès. Thanks to its prime location, the village is the starting point for a number of routes for both experienced and casual hikers.