Sénas

Sénas, Bouches du Rhone, Provence

Sénas is a charming village located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region (department Bouches -du-Rhône) of southern France, near Aix-en-Provence and Marseille. While it may not be as well-known as some of the larger towns in the region, Sénas offers a unique and authentic Provencal experience that can be interesting for tourists.

  • ∼ 7 000 inhabitants
  • 40 km north from Marseille

Wheather in Sénas

 

Sénas travel guide

Sénas offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Provence and the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, with its charming streets, historical sites, and proximity to natural beauty . It’s a great destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the culture and ambiance of rural Provence while also being within reach of larger cities and attractions in the region.

 *prices and conditions are as of 2024

 

TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICE
  • Address: cours Jean Jaurès – 13560 SENAS (P. Beynet Media Library)
  • Open all year (except public holidays)
    • Monday: closed
    • Tuesday: 4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
    • Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m./2 p.m.– 6:30 p.m.
    • Thursday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m./4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
    • Friday: 4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
    • Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Tel.: 04 90 59 20 25 / E-mail: [email protected]

 

What to see and do?

1. Quaint Provencal Village: Sénas is a picturesque and tranquil village that epitomizes the rustic charm of Provence. Its narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and lovely squares create a delightful atmosphere that invites visitors to explore.

2. Rich History: The village of Sénas has a rich history dating back centuries. History enthusiasts will appreciate the well-preserved architecture and the sense of stepping back in time as they wander through the streets.

3. Église Saint-Amand: One of the notable landmarks in Sénas is the Église Saint-Amand, a historic church with a beautiful facade and interior. It’s a great place to appreciate the region’s religious and architectural heritage.

4. Lavender Fields: Sénas is situated in the heart of Provence, which is famous for its lavender fields. Depending on the time of year, visitors can enjoy the stunning sight and fragrant aroma of lavender fields in full bloom. Lavender harvesting and festivals are also common in the region.

5. Local Markets: Like many Provencal towns, Sénas hosts regular markets, where you can sample local produce, wines, cheeses, and other regional specialties. The markets are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

6. Proximity to Other Attractions: Sénas is conveniently located, making it a great base for exploring other attractions in Provence. It’s within a reasonable driving distance of cities like Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon Regional Natural Park.

7. Outdoor Activities: The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The peaceful rural landscapes and vineyards make for beautiful walks and bike rides.

File:Alpilles landscape cf01.jpg

 

History of Sénas

Sénas is a picturesque village located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) region of France, known for its rich history and charming atmosphere. Here’s a short history of Sénas:

  • Ancient Origins: The history of Sénas dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the area was inhabited by various civilizations, including the Celts and the Romans. The village’s strategic location made it an important settlement during these periods.
  • Roman Influence: During Roman rule, Sénas was known as “Senascus.” It was a Roman colony with agricultural activities, including the cultivation of olives and grapes. The remnants of Roman villas and structures can still be found in the area, indicating the significance of Sénas during this era.
  • Medieval Times: In the medieval period, Sénas continued to thrive. It was a part of the feudal system and changed hands among various noble families. The architecture of the village, including its church, reflects the Romanesque style that was prevalent during this time. The Château de Sénas, a prominent castle in the village, played a significant role in its history. While the castle itself may not be open to the public, it serves as a symbol of the village’s medieval heritage.
  • 17th-18th Centuries: The town developed as an agricultural center, known for its fruit production, particularly melons.
  • French Revolution: Sénas, like the rest of Provence, became fully integrated into France.
  • 19th and 20th Centuries: Like many villages in the region, Sénas faced challenges during the 19th and 20th centuries, including the impact of the phylloxera epidemic on its vineyards. However, the development of transportation, such as railways and roads, opened up new opportunities for trade and tourism.

 

Attractions

 

Eglise Saint-Amand

At the end of the 11th century, beginning of the 12th century, the lords of Sénas had built three chapels on their estates: Sainte-Marie de Méjeans, Saint-Amand and Saint-Pierre.

In 1150, they offered them to Bishop Geoffroi d’Avignon who had their ownership confirmed by Pope Adrian IV on 24 April 1155. From that date, the chapel of Saint-Amand was erected as a parish church.

In 1306, the church was enlarged by the construction of a central nave and the choir. In the 15th century, the north aisle was built. In the 17th century, work was undertaken in this part of the sanctuary. The other two naves are in the Gothic style and their vaults rest on high ribbed vaults. The bell tower, built in 1306, is distinguished by its massive spire, decorated with rostra.

Restored in 2008, 2009, the church now presents interesting frescoes from the 19th century, the time of the French Revolution, a decoration that is extremely rare in the region. Paintings, baptismal fonts, holy water font and statues have been the subject of meticulous restoration.

File:Église Saint Amand.JPG

 

Lavoir du Pont de la Pierre (wash house)

In the past, Sénas had 3 wash houses. This one was built at the same time as the first water tower, in 1924. Every morning, the rural guard put water into the wash house.

 

Bosquet Bridge

Also called the Roman Bridge. This pretty romantic bridge, however, only dates from 1812, and spans the Alpines Canal, dug on the eve of the Revolution and completed around 1840.

 

Château de Sénas

The story begins in the 13th century when the lords of Sénas constructed a keep for protection. Over time, a second building was added, and a castle was established in the heart of the village. Several noble families, including the Porcelet-Sacristain d’Arles and the Benault de Lubière, occupied the estate from the 13th to 18th centuries. At one point, Sénas was fortified with ramparts, part of which still remains in the Parée garden, to defend against enemies of the ruling Jarente family.

The castle remained militaristic until 1757, but by 1775, it was transformed into a country residence, with the keep becoming its right wing. A park was even created, as evidenced by the ornamental vase now displayed in the Eden Theatre. Unfortunately, the castle was vandalized in 1792, never to be restored due to financial constraints, leaving behind a few identifiable remains for modern-day visitors.

 

 

Shopping in Sénas

Farmers’ Markets

Sénas is today recognized for having one of the most beautiful and authentic “Farmers’ Markets”, especially on Saturdays. The large square is teeming with activities, noises and fruity scents for the greatest pleasure of customers and onlookers who savor a precious moment where the tradition, still relevant, has lost neither its charm nor its accuracy. Among the crates overflowing with fruits and vegetables that make our region famous, passers-by can discover or rediscover, throughout the seasons: the zucchini flower, medlars, small violets but also broad beans, fennel and olives… the great restaurateurs of the region are not mistaken, since they are present very early in the morning, among the crowd.

  • From April 1st to October 31st: the farmers’ market takes place every morning except Sundays and public holidays
  • From November 1st to March 31st: it takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday mornings, except on public holidays

The fairground market in Sénas takes place every Thursday morning . It is located on Place Auguste Jaubert . There are merchants on around 50 stalls offering fruit and vegetables, fish and seafood, butchery and delicatessen, producers, snacks, local products, clothing, haberdashery, utensils, toys and other non-food products. The number of exhibitors and the products offered vary depending on the season.

Provencal market

 

Festivals and celebrations in Sénas

Sénas, like many villages in Provence, hosts several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. Some of the notable festivals and celebrations in Sénas include:

  1. Transhumance: Last Sunday in April. Passage of sheep heading for the mountain pastures, led by shepherds and their dogs, folk groups, pack donkeys and all the costumed people who want to take part in the parade. Then it’s time for the gourmet fair and the wine fair, artisans or regional producers, set up on the place du Marché.
  2. Fête de la Saint-Jean (June 24th): The Feast of St. John is a traditional celebration held on June 24th, which marks the summer solstice. In Sénas, it is often celebrated with bonfires, music, dancing, and local food. It’s a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the village.
  3. Saint Amand: summer festival (last week of August), funfair, balls, bullfighting, belote or boules competitions, motorbike outings and bike races, paintball and fireworks….
  4. Charrette de la Saint-Amanet: penultimate Sunday in September. Parade of the large cart, skillfully decorated with seasonal fruits and vegetables from the region, pulled by 30 draft horses and followed by the various teams with folk groups and costumed people. Blessing of the cart on the forecourt of the church. Folk and musical entertainment.
  5. La Fête de la Saint-Eloi (December 1st): This festival, dedicated to Saint Eligius, the patron saint of blacksmiths, is a traditional religious festival celebrated in many villages in the northern Alpilles and Val de Durance area. It is celebrated in early December. It typically involves a procession with decorated carts (charrettes) pulled by horses, celebrating Saint Eloi, who is the patron saint of various trades and animals, particularly horses.
  6. Fête Votive: Sénas, like many villages in the region, hosts a Fête Votive, which is a traditional Provençal celebration. It often includes bullfighting events, parades, live music, dance, and various forms of entertainment. The exact dates may vary from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check with local sources for the latest information.
  7. Marché de Noël artisanal Alsace Provence (last weekend of November): Christmas market

 

How to get to Sénas

hile it may not have its own airport or major train station, it is accessible by several transportation options:

By Car:

One of the most convenient ways to reach Sénas, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding region, is by car. You can rent a car at major airports like Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) or Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) and drive to Sénas. Sénas is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Marseille, and you can take the A7 or A8 highways to get there. The village is well-connected by road.

By Train:

Train station Sénas is located on Marseille – Avignon line via Cavaillon, with direct trains from  Avignon Center (47 min, €10.40), Cavaillon (9 min, €3.60), Salon (10 min, €4), Miramas (€6.70), Vitrolles – Aéroport Marseille Provence (45 min, €12.60), L’Estaque (€14.80) and Marseille Saint-Charles (1:04, €16.50).

By Bus:

Provence has an extensive bus network that connects various towns and villages. There are only 2 departamental buses from Sénas, both to Salon-de-Provence:

Map of regional buses LER in Provence:

LER bus routes in Provence

 

Around Sénas

Sénas is located in the beautiful Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France, which is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and cultural attractions. While Sénas itself is a charming village with its own attractions, there are many places of interest to explore in the surrounding area. Here are some recommendations for what to see around Sénas:

  1. Salon-de-Provence: This nearby town is famous for its historic center, including the Château de l’Empéri, which houses the Musée de l’Empéri, showcasing military history.
  2. Les Baux-de-Provence: A short drive south of Sénas will take you to Les Baux-de-Provence, a captivating medieval village perched on a rocky hill. Explore the charming streets, visit the Carrières de Lumières for immersive art exhibitions, and take in panoramic views of the Alpilles from the fortress ruins.
  3. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Known for its Provencal charm, this town is famous for being the birthplace of Nostradamus. Stroll through its lively streets, visit the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, and explore the Van Gogh walking trail, which highlights locations depicted in the artist’s paintings.
  4. Avignon: A bit farther to the west, you’ll find the historic city of Avignon, known for the stunning Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d’Avignon). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  5. Aix-en-Provence: Head south to the elegant town of Aix-en-Provence, known for its beautiful architecture, fountains, and vibrant street markets. Don’t forget to visit Cours Mirabeau, the city’s main thoroughfare.
  6. Arles: To the southeast, Arles is renowned for its Roman heritage, including the impressive Arles Amphitheatre. It was also a source of inspiration for Vincent van Gogh, who created many paintings here.
  7. Camargue Regional Natural Park: If you’re a nature lover, consider visiting the Camargue, a unique wetland area known for its wildlife, including flamingos, wild horses, and marshlands. It’s a great place for birdwatching and outdoor activities.
  8. Alpilles Regional Natural Park: Sénas is located at the northern edge of the Alpilles, a small mountain range known for its rugged beauty. Explore the natural park, hike the trails, and enjoy the scenic views.
  9. Luberon Regional Natural Park: Further east, the Luberon region offers picturesque villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, all perched on hillsides amid stunning landscapes. You can explore traditional Provençal life and architecture in these villages.
  10. Wine Tours: The Provence region is famous for its vineyards and wineries. Consider taking a wine tour to sample some of the local wines, including rosé wines that the region is known for.

 

Sénas on the map of France

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