Ermitage et grotte de Saint-Eucher

Beaumont-de-Pertuis

The chapel of Saint-Eucher is hollowed out of a cliff, above the Durance. Formerly, it stood in a completely isolated spot. In 1118, the priory appears among the possessions of the abbey of Saint-André de Villeneuve; in 1343, it was in poor condition and without furnishings. Restored in 1648, it housed Recollect brothers from 1713 to 1820. The chapel has a semicircular apse and a nave with a barrel vault. Its upper floor served as lodgings. Local tradition holds that Saint Eucher, bishop of Lyon in the 5th century, lived as a hermit in this cave. This is a tradition, not an established fact. On the altar, a statue of Saint Eucher dates from the 15th century. The cave forms a network of galleries, explored over more than 1,600 metres.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Tourisme — Chapelle et prieuré Saint-Eucher ↗

Getting there: Alongside the D 996 road, at Beaumont-de-Pertuis. A small, barely visible path runs along the foot of the cliff. Free entry; times not specified by the tourist office. The cave is a caving cavity: enter only with supervision.

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound