Quinson, Village with prehistoric museum in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France
Description
Quinson is a settlement in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence positioned between tall limestone cliffs and the Verdon River, enclosed by medieval walls with seven crenellated towers and two fortified gates. Buildings stack against the hillside, and the Prehistory Museum, designed by architect Norman Foster, sits at the edge and contrasts with the older stone structures nearby.
History
The area around Quinson saw human habitation from very early times, with evidence in the Baume Bonne cave showing settlements over many millennia. In the 15th century, residents moved the settlement down from the hilltop to the valley and built the defensive walls that remain today.
Culture
The village maintains its medieval character through everyday use of narrow lanes and stone buildings, with residents and visitors moving through spaces designed for a different pace of life. This slow rhythm shapes how people experience and remember the place.
Practical
The settlement sits along the Verdon River and offers access to hiking trails, camping areas, and water activities in the gorge. Visitors should bring sturdy shoes and sun protection, as paths can be steep and exposed.
Did you know?
The Prehistory Museum was designed by renowned British architect Norman Foster and ranks among Europe's largest museums dedicated to this period. Its modern design creates a striking contrast with the old village, showing how contemporary architecture can enhance a historic setting.
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Lac d'Esparron
6.8 km
Basses Gorges du Verdon
3.2 km
Canal du Verdon
1.1 km
Musée de Préhistoire des Gorges du Verdon
150 m
Lac de Quinson
819 m
Castle of Allemagne-en-Provence
9.4 km
Château d'Esparron-de-Verdon
6.6 km
Grotte de la Baume Bonne
1.3 km
Commanderie de Saint-Maurice
2.8 km
Gorges de Baudinard
7.9 km
Baume des Pierres
3.3 km
Prieuré de Valmogne
6.4 km
Église Saint-Martin de Saint-Martin-de-Brômes
10.7 km
Tour de l’horloge de Saint-Martin-de-Brômes
10.8 km
Église Saint-André d'Esparron-de-Verdon
6.6 km
Aquädukt La Verdière
10.5 km
Église Saint-Pierre d'Artignosc-sur-Verdon
4.1 km
Église Saint-Julien-et-Sainte-Trinité de Saint-Julien
10.7 km
Église de Quinson
59 m
Montmeyan plage
916 m
Église Saint-Nom-de-Jésus des Rouvières
6.9 km
Église Notre-Dame-du-Plan de Montmeyan
6.4 km
Église Saint-Michel-Archange de Baudinard-sur-Verdon
7.8 km
Église Saint-Marc d'Allemagne-en-Provence
9.1 km
Église Saint-Laurent de Saint-Laurent-du-Verdon
3.4 km
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde de Baudinard-sur-Verdon
8.3 km
Chapelle Saint-Jean de Baudinard-sur-Verdon
7.7 km
Chapelle Saint-Esprit
6.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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