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Take a day-trip to Roquebrune
2010-06-24 13:53
There is a legend that the village of Roquebrune owes its survival to the fragile broom plants which, in the 7th century, during a terrible earthquake, stopped its deadly pull towards the sea. Perched at 300 metres above the sea, between Monaco and Menton, the village is a maze of tiny medieval streets, just asking to be explored. You'll find a good selection of restaurants as well as artists' ateliers selling pottery, carvings from olive wood, artisan candles - and don't forget to visit the 2,000 year old olive tree.
The turbulent history of the site no doubt accounts for the Roquebrune's stategic position. You only have to walk on the castle ramparts to understand the attraction of this fabulous observation post with amazing views of the coast from Italy to Monaco and beyond. Undergoing successive barbaric invasions by the Lombards and the Saracens, it was under the military protection of the Counts of Ventimiglia that the Chateau was built in 970 AD to prevent future land or maritime attacks.
Photo © Jilly Bennett
Genoese in the 12th century, Roquebrune then came under Grimaldi control and became part of the principality of Monaco along with Menton. After a brief period under Sardinian control, the village returned to its legitimate ruler, the Prince of Monaco, before becoming a free town, then finally French in 1860.
From the lavoir (washing place) to the Castle, each stone tells of this past, and the charm continues. The village is an invitation to discovery, from narrow alleyways to tiny squares, from stairways to viewing spots, the paving stones seem to whisper to those that can hear 'be curious.'
Click here for information on opening hours and admission fees