Castellane, Administrative center in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France.
Castellane is a small town in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region that sits on a plateau surrounded by sheer rock faces. The white chapel perched on top of the cliff above the village defines the settlement's profile and is visible from the valley below.
The settlement developed from a Roman post and was expanded into a fortified town during the Middle Ages to defend against raids. The Pétardiers battle was a defining moment that demonstrated the town's defensive strength.
The pilgrimage tradition to Notre-Dame de Roc has drawn worshippers for centuries, who climb steep paths to reach the sanctuary above the village. This religious practice still shapes community life today and connects visitors with local devotion.
The village provides basic services including a hospital, a market center, and bus connections to larger towns. The best time to explore is from May to October when the weather is mild and dry.
Castellane served as a filming location for several French films, as the dramatic landscape with cliffs and forest attracts filmmakers. The white chapel became a particularly popular subject for cinematographers.
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