The paradise of black truffles is this town in the south of France with a Templar ruins

When it comes to selecting a destination where you can enjoy unique gastronomy, history and folklore, France is one of the most outstanding options within European territory. The neighboring country with Spain due to its border in the Pyrenees, is not only an ideal alternative for the wonders it offers, but also for its proximity to the Peninsula, making it an option to take into account when planning a getaway. last minute

The south of the French country is also known for its culinary culture and natural spaces, which allow you to discover waterfalls, hiking routes and ancient buildings still preserved. The commune of Richerenches, located in the department of Vaucluse, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, is one of those unique enclaves that amaze each of its visitors.

History of Richerenches

Although the enclave preserves remains from previous times, the greatest heritage preserved in the commune of Richerenches comes from the time of the Knights Templar. Thus, founded by a commission to this organization in the year 1136, the space still preserves remains of its marked medieval past.

In this way, several of the buildings present in the place were built at the direction of the Order, which can still be enjoyed today. An example of the regency of Richerenches by the Knights Templar was the basis of its economy, which for many years stood out for its crops—mainly wheat—and for the breeding of horses and sheep, the former destined mainly for military use.

During the dissolution of the Templar Order at the Council of Vienna in 1308, the lands were given to the Hospitallers, although they became the property of Pope John XXII in June 1317. Since then and until the present time, the space has been nourished by different historical, artistic and religious constructions.

The gastronomy of Richerenches

One of the strong points of the commune of Richerenches is its gastronomy: the enclave is known throughout France as ‘the capital of the truffle’ due to the great quality production of this food that takes place on the outskirts of the town.

In this way, throughout the enclave it is possible to enjoy great preparations that combine tradition and typical French cuisine, also using this very special ingredient. The one called in Latin as Tuber melanosporumstars throughout Richerenches in a wide variety of haute cuisine dishes and events dedicated to its consumption.

The commune even has its own museum dedicated to exposing the origin and collection method of this unique food. It is possible to learn everything related to the so-called “rabasse” in Provence or “black diamond” in Spanish, during a two-hour visit through a vaulted stone room.

In it you can not only enjoy information about the black truffle, but also about vineyard strains, truffle oaks and other elements that you can learn about through interactive elements, explanatory posters and period objects that nourish the visit and make it pleasant. for all audiences.

Monuments in Richerenches

The commune of Richerenches has a varied heritage in which both civil and religious buildings stand out. Thus, throughout the territory it is possible to enjoy several buildings such as the Templar Commandery of Richerenches, an old Templar hospital commandery from the 12th century, considered the oldest in all of Provence despite being in ruins today.

Likewise, it is also possible to tour other buildings such as the Chamber of Notaries, located in the center of the town and classified as a historical monument since December 28, 1984. In addition, throughout the town it is also possible to enjoy the iconic bell tower and the papal milestones, small stone pivots that delimit the border between the territories of Dauphiné and the north of the Vaucluse department.

On the other hand, Richerenches has several religious monuments, mainly due to its Templar past. In this way, it is possible to enjoy several Christian buildings throughout the enclave, some of the most notable are: