Roussillon and Gordes, France

On the way to Roussillon, we spotted this common sight along the road.  Trees were planted in a row ancient times to protect travelers.

Roussillon sits on the hilltop of Mont Rouge which means Red Mountain.

The red clay contains deposits of ochre which used to be mined and used for wallpaper and linoleum.

The castle is a prominent feature of the town.

The ochre clay gives buildings an orange color.

 Notice the steps leading to the bell tower of the church.

Eleventh century church St. Michel.

Inside this sleeping cat protects the alter 

when not on mouse patrol.

The castle grounds still have active business and private homes.

Lavender fields bloom in June and July in this area.  We found the dried flowers and seeds in many of the markets.

 Our last stop was Gordes a former ghost town. In recent years rich people from Paris and other countries have renovated homes and added swimming pools.