Roussillon

Roussillon, red like its name, is an extraordinary site and sight. Wander around its narrow streets and enjoy its colourful ochre-tinted façades, ceramics galleries and beautiful views. Walk to the top of the village to catch a breath-taking panorama: the Mont Ventoux to the north, Gordes to the east, and to the south the Grand Luberon.

Roussillon – or rather Gargas, nearby – has the last ochre mining operation and processing plant in Europe, thus preserving an old tradition. Ochre is a natural mineral and pigment, still used for artist paints. It comes in yellow, brown and red tints. It was used from prehistoric times (to decorate caves like Lascaux, for example) and the Roman era. In the 19th century it became an industry and an active contributor to the economic success of Apt. It was used as pigment in paints but also as a component in rubber and linoleum manufacturing. You will learn more at:

Le Conservatoire des Ocres  https://www.provenceguide.co.uk/cultural-heritage/luberon/okhra—ecomusee-de-locre/provence-5261996-1.html

Le Circuit de l’Ocre  http://okhra.com/ateliers/circuit-ocres-de-roussillon/

Le Colorado Provençal de Rustrel  https://www.provenceweb.fr/e/vaucluse/rustrel/rustrel.htm