Lime Kiln, Mill, and Panorama

Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is a quintessential Provençal village nestled on the southern slopes of the Monts de Vaucluse.

To the north of the village, the Lower Cretaceous limestone outcrops are visible. To the south, you will find Aptian marls. As you descend toward Apt and Gargas, these marls are covered by alluvium and topped with small hills where tertiary sands, limestone, clays, and various conglomerates alternate.

Historical Village and Fortifications

The medieval village from the 11th century once stood on the hill. The rock, still surrounded by ramparts, defines the original fortified village. As you climb to the castle via stone-paved paths, you’ll encounter well-preserved remnants of the old ramparts, gates, and square towers.

In the garden of the Chapel, the panoramic table offers a breathtaking view of the Apt basin and the Luberon massif.

The Mill

Originally, four mills from the 17th-18th centuries occupied the heights of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt. One of these mills has been restored on the village ridge. Surrounding the mill are the grain drying area and the ruins of ancillary buildings for bagging and storage.

The conical roof of the mill is well-suited to the Mistral wind. This roof, made of interlocking wooden pieces in a semicircle, is adjustable and allows the mill’s sails to face the wind. Dominating the village and the entire Apt region, the mill site provides stunning views.

The Lime Kiln:

Before industrialization, most villages had a lime kiln for community use. The lime kiln in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is located on the site of the mills. It was used to burn gypsum and limestone, facilitating the production of plaster. Notably, it features a long loading ramp leading to the kiln opening.