Sisteron, Provence a guide de voyage

Visitez Sisteron gites : hotels : location des voitures | Decouvrir Provence

Sisteron is in the Alpes de haute Provence department, 60 km south of Gap en route for the Mediterranean.

Sisteron is a town in a picturesque setting on the bank of the Durance River, with mountains behind (one especially large 'rock' is practically in the town centre) and a large citadelle.

Above all, it is the citadelle on the rocky slope at the east end of the town that is the big attraction. Dating originally from the 11th century then later enhanced, then fortified by Vauban, it still dominates the town although part of the citadel was destroyed in 1944 by an allied bombardment. A part of the interior of the citadel is devoted to Napoleon, who passed through the town during his famous return from exile in Elba.

When you have finished with the citadel and the splendid viewpoints, descend to the main town - noteworthy monuments include the clock tower; some substantial towers (remains of the medieval fortifications that once protected the town - it was an important gateway to the Alps), and the Church of Notre-Dame.

The old town itself is picturesque with narrow streets lined with solid houses, and an abundance of fountains.

Sisteron: tourisme, carte, guide de voyage et gites