View of an old town with a stone church on a hill, surrounded by houses with tiled roofs and many trees, with mountains in the background.

Saignon

The name of the village is thought to come from the Latin signum, meaning "signal," because the rock was used as a lookout point.

Among the hilltop villages of the Apt Valley, Saignon is undoubtedly the oldest.

Even before the year 1000, on one of the platforms of its monumental rock, the bishopric of Apt had built an imposing tower to defend against looters and invaders of its town. Then two castles were built in turn; one, the "Château Méjean, " on the rock in the "middle," the other, the Château de Crugière, on a vast platform facing east.

The surrounding populations, who had previously lived in isolation in scattered settlements, gathered around the castle walls, thus benefiting from the protection of the local lords.

And so, at the turn of the year 1000, Saignon was born, a small town and trading center where all trades were practiced.

Built in the 12th century, the church of Saignon overlooks theApt valley. 

The fountain square

In the heart of the village, Place de la Fontaine is located in the Bourget district.
It was an extension of the medieval village within the city walls, dating back to the 16th century.

Place de la Fontaine plays an important role in everyday life. The iconic fountain in the center features two allegorical statues representing agriculture and abundance, created by Joseph Noël Elzéar Sollier, a native of Saignon and student of David d'Angers.
Historically, the square was a gathering place: a place to stroll, wash clothes, chat with neighbors, and enjoy a friendly break in the shade of a hackberry tree and near the cool water. 

Place de la Fontaine retains its Provençal charm: stone facades, greenery, and light that changes with the seasons.
In summer, it offers coolness and calm; in spring and fall, its changing atmosphere enchants visitors.

Inner courtyard of a stone building with a central tree, a stone fountain with statues, metal tables and chairs, and green vegetation
An old photograph showing a square with a central fountain, people standing around it, trees, and a stone building in the background.
An old photograph showing people around a fountain in a building courtyard with trees and old buildings in the background.

Historically, the Auberge was a collection of fairly simple terraced houses, one of which was a large garage opening onto the Place de la Fontaine. It was opened by the owners of the village's former presbytery. Purchased by a local couple, the Auberge built up a fine reputation in the region for its hospitality and good food in one of the most beautiful squares in the Luberon. Then, when they retired, the Auberge fell into a slumber. 

The inn is undergoing a complete renovation and will reopen in June 2026.

Recently taken over by a neighboring family, refurbished and decorated with care to highlight the surrounding nature and stonework, the Auberge is regaining its soul and will reopen its doors in June 2026. The new owners are committed to preserving the spirit of this historic building while adding contemporary charm.