Valréas, Commune within the Enclave des Papes, Vaucluse, France
Valréas is a commune within the Enclave des Papes, a unique French territory completely surrounded by Vaucluse department. The landscape combines rolling hills, vineyards, and rural villages with stone buildings typical of the southern French countryside.
Pope John XXII purchased this territory in 1317 to secure wine production for the church. This acquisition created an isolated French area under papal control that persisted for centuries.
Boundary stones carved with papal emblems mark the edges of the town, linking it to its ecclesiastical roots. These markers remain visible reminders of the religious authority that shaped the area.
The town offers free parking near the center and straightforward access to main points of interest. Visiting is possible year-round, though summers bring warm temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall.
The town maintains sister city relationships with communities in Germany, Canada, and Italy. These connections create cultural links between the southern French village and distant communities across Europe and North America.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
