Levens, commune in Alpes-Maritimes, France
Levens is a small commune in the southeastern Alpes-Maritimes perched on a limestone hill at approximately 600 meters elevation. The village is characterized by narrow paved streets that climb toward a church dating from the 13th century and features stone houses with old entrance gates and a tower that overlooks the settlement.
Levens developed in the Middle Ages around a castle built around 900 by the Counts of Provence. The village played an important role in the salt trade supporting Nice merchants until it was damaged by earthquakes and invasions in the 17th century.
The village celebrates its patron saints with processions and summer festivals where traditional farandole dances are performed. Residents speak a local dialect alongside French and maintain regional dishes like pissaladière and pistou as part of their everyday culture.
The village is accessible by car or train with parking available below and gentle paths for exploring on foot. There is a tourist information center, a swimming pool at the top of the village, and numerous hiking trails and mountain biking routes in the surrounding area.
A local tradition celebrates jumping on a stone called Boutau as a symbol of village independence achieved in 1621. This unusual celebration takes place during the feast of Saint Antonin and connects freedom with ancient customs.
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