France - Provence - Gréoux -

Gréoux : 1

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GRÉOUX-LES-BAINS is an ancient Roman town situated on the Verdon river and is a popular tourist destination because of its mineral hot springs.

Gréoux (one pronounces the "x"!) town centre is built on the side of the hill and is well known for its weekly market.

Although a Roman site the area previously had neolithic and celtic connections. The town was later destroyed in various barbarian invasions but In the 12th century it was taken by the Templars who restored the town and the baths. In the 16th century the town was ravaged by the Huguenots. Gréoux became popular in the 19th century and was visited by many famous people, including Pauline Bonaparte.

The Roman hot spring healing baths were dedicated to the nymphs of 'Griseliae'. In the second-century the baths were visited by Anna Faustina, a relative of Marcus Aurelius, later murdered by Commodus.

Fine remains of a Roman swimming pool and other buildings were discovered on the site during recent excavations.

Waiting for the 'cure'  (right)

The Chateau (to be seen in the background of the picture on the left) overlooks the town. It dates from the 12th century, with later building and restorations in the 13th, 14th and 17th centuries. The building is being redeveloped as a cultural centre.





The weekly market is one of the colourful events held in the town.

Local souvenirs include bags and hats decorated with lavender motifs  (left) ...








... and an enthusiastic purveyor of olive products offers a tempting sample of his wares  (right)

Local olive products include various qualities of olive oil, and 'caviar made from black and green olives with perhaps added tomato and other ingredients  (left)

The visit to Gréoux continues on the next page.
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