Brignoles, Administrative commune in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
Brignoles is a commune in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, stretching across gentle hills from 190 to 767 meters (623 to 2,516 feet) in elevation. The center consists of stone structures and narrow lanes that climb the hillside, punctuated by small squares and shaded passageways.
In the 13th century, the Counts of Provence built a castle here as a summer retreat from the heat of the lowlands. The structure remains today, recalling the era when this area served as a seat of comital power.
The town takes its name from the Provençal word for plum, reflecting centuries of fruit growing that shaped local life. Visitors today can still see the influence of this heritage in traditional recipes served at restaurants and in the way residents gather at outdoor cafés during warm evenings.
The public library offers books, digital materials, and regular programs for all ages interested in culture and reading. Visitors planning to explore the old quarter should wear comfortable shoes, as streets slope upward and cobblestones are common underfoot.
Each August, a festival honors the local plum, recalling the days when dried fruit shaped the rural economy. Vendors and visitors gather to share recipes and celebrate the agricultural roots that still define the area.
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