The troglodytic caves of Villecroze
You will discover, over 5 levels, mullioned windows, arrow-slits, a passage behind the waterfall, small water reserves with numerous varied concretions, including large stalactites and frames of lacy tufa.
They formerly belonged to the Benedictines who took refuge there during the Saracen invasions. Vigilants, they lived there perhaps, defended themselves surely, escaped them sometimes without doubt by the enormous orifice of a monumental chimney which debouched on the top of the cave.
It was at this time of the IXth century that the caves, of natural origin, were used for the purpose of protection against the invader and that transformations were made there: loopholes, bars of protection of the exits transformed the places in underground fortresses .
From the 12th century, Villecroze flourished, vigilance was relaxed, surveillance seems to have abandoned the caves and these deprived of human presence has suffered the wear of time.
Due to their historical and geological significance, the caves were classified in 1924 as "Artstic Monuments".
The troglodytic caves of Villecroze
Boulevard Charles Bernard
83690 Villecroze
Useful information
Opening
From 01/04 to 30/06/2024
Opening hours on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 1 pm and 5 pm.
Last visit at 4pm
Open on public holidays.
From 01/07 to 31/08/2024
Opening hours daily between 10 am and 1 pm and between 2 pm and 6 pm.
Last visit in the morning at 12 noon.
Last visit in the afternoon at 5 pm.
From 01/09 to 30/09/2024
Opening hours on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 10 am and 12 pm and between 2 pm and 5 pm.
Last visit in the morning at 11 a.m.
Last visit in the afternoon at 4 p.m.
From 01/10 to 31/10/2024
Opening hours on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday between 1 pm and 4 pm.
Dernière visite à 15h.
Prices
Adult: 5 €.
Dernière mise à jour des informations le 04/03/2024
Touristic information
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Localization
The troglodytic caves of Villecroze
Boulevard Charles Bernard
83690 Villecroze