Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne

Chateauneuf de Gadagne Provence

The village of Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne is built on a large hill separating the Rhône valley and the Sorgues country.

Sitting on the eastern side with one's back to Avignon, Châteauneuf turns toward the Mont Ventoux, the plain of the Comtat Venaissin and the Sorgues rivers country.

Frédéric Mistral par Paul Saïn The village inherited its name from one of its famous lords, Count Charles Félix de Gallean de Gadagne, lieutenant-general in the armies of King Louis XIV, and comrade in arms with Turenne. He was raised to the rank of duc de Gadagne by Pope Clement IX in 1669.

The "Château de Fontségugne" in Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne is a symbolic place for the provençal culture : there in 1854 was founded the Félibrige, a literary movement promoting the renewal of the provençal language, poetry and literature, initiated by Frédéric Mistral (a future Nobel Prize laureate) and his companions of the "Ecole d'Avignon".

The proximity of Avignon makes Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne a residential area. The surroundings nevertheless retain the pleasant character of the provençal countryside. The vineyard thrives on the broad, sunny hillsides , producing a fine "Côtes du Rhône", and the orchards spread in the plain.

The village is rooted to the slope, and its streets are sometimes quite steep. Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne suffered wilful damages during the Wars of Religion in the 16th century and during the Revolution. It keeps nevertheless an authentic provençal charm. Walking through its narrow streets is very pleasant and offers many opportunities to rest in shaded squares and discover old fountains.

The castle of the 12th century, reputed then one of the most beautiful in the region was abandoned and fell into ruin after the Revolution, and was used as a quarry for the village inhabitants. The church retains some features from its Romanesque origins. Information signs present to the visitor historic notes and noteworthy buildings of Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne 's heritage.

The surroundings offer very nice walks, cycling and horse riding through the vineyards protected from the wind by high cypress hedges. As you follow the paths, you'll enjoy superb views on the Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail or to the south on the Alpilles and Luberon mountains.