Saorge Vincent Jacques
BarbaraComing to Saorge is about reconnecting with nature! It’s a sure way of getting back to basics. You can’t help but be impressed by this village perched on the mountainside. A visit to the monastery is ideal for getting away from it all.
Having been severely impacted by Storm Alex, the Roya Valley and its villages are now ready to welcome you this summer! Road and rail links have been developed to offer you the best possible experience.
Built into the rock, Saorge can only be reached on foot. On arriving in the village, you feel an incredible sense of inner peace and tranquillity. This unspoilt environment takes us through a maze of narrow streets and steps with a unique atmosphere… The tall houses further add to this feeling of grandeur. Traditional washhouses and fountains complete the calm and serene setting. This historic heritage blends in perfectly with the outstanding natural surroundings, where water and rock meet, forming the foundation of this exceptionally enchanting place.
A former Franciscan friary, the monastery of Saorge is now listed as a Monument Historique. It became the property of the State in the mid-1960s and was transformed into a house for literature and authors in 2001. The Baroque building today, welcomes writers, translators, scriptwriters and composers who come to take part in writing retreats, seminars and conferences.
Saorge Monastere De Saorge Ext Vincent JacquesDon’t miss the trompe-l’oeil facade, superb woodwork, rectangular cloister with frescoes depicting the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, and the magnificent sundials.
The church, now considered a Baroque masterpiece, was originally Roman. The interior features 17th and 18th century altarpieces, a christening font and a high altar made in 1732, which is a real marvel of marble inlay. The organ, crafted in Italy, was transported by boat to Nice and brought to Saorge on the backs of mules in separate pieces in 1847. It has been regularly played at concerts and religious events ever since. The 19th century bell is regularly rung by the village’s master bell-ringer.
On the bell tower of Saint-Sauveur Church, there is a highly original bell chime, featuring four bells that were cast in the 19th century. Saorge’s master bell ringer regularly rings the “tirignoun de saoudge” using both his hands and feet.
Above the village, the monastery of Saorge offers a breath-taking view. Yet, by going a little further, you can find hikes that take you even higher and discover what is traditionally referred to as the ‘Roya lock’, featuring the ruins of Chateau de Malmort, the Bendola Valley and its canyon, and the river that winds its way through the valley… this site is like a fortress.
Rando Guidee Pango VisualAt one time defended by three chateaux, the stronghold of Saorge, reputedly unconquerable, was nicknamed ‘the Roya Lock’.
