Christmas nativity scene in Joucas church, in the Luberon

The small village of Joucas lies between Gordes, Murs and Roussillon. Walk up to Saint-Jean-Baptiste church to admire the tiered nativity scene in a side chapel. The clothed santons are particularly expressive. They are the work of the outstanding santon maker Simone Jouglas, awarded the title Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 1961. A Marseille workshop continues to produce her figures.

Supporters of the Friends of Joucas Church association made the scenery. Some santons were donated by villagers, while the association purchased others.

Make the most of your visit with a stroll around Joucas, which overlooks the ochre hills of Roussillon and the Luberon massif.

Photographs of Joucas' Christmas nativity scene: slideshow

Getting to Joucas: GPS coordinates N 43°55’36’’ – E 5°15’10’’