The Village of Cucuron

The origins of Cucuron

Cucuron, a village of 1,850 inhabitants, lies on the eastern slope of the Luberon at the foot of the "Mourre Nègre", the highest point of the massif at 1,125m. The village is built on two rises: a hillock to the west, dominated by the Saint-Michel keep, and a hillock to the east topped by the "Sus Pous" tower and the Notre-Dame-de-Beaulieu church.

This setting may explain the origin of the village's name: "kuk", a pre-Indo-European root meaning a rounded height, also found in other place names such as Plan-de-Cuques, Cuges and Coucouron.

The earliest traces of human settlement in the Cucuron area date back to Roman times. The village was then a small Roman settlement called "Cucurum".

During the Middle Ages, Cucuron was a fortified village atop a hill. It was protected by ramparts and a castle, built to defend the population against invasions. The castle was destroyed in the 16th century. In the 13th century, the village expanded beyond the ramparts, and Notre-Dame-de-Beaulieu church became the parish church. Over the following centuries, Cucuron's population grew, reaching 3,000 inhabitants in 1719. The plague of 1720 wiped out a third of the population. The rural exodus and the war of 1914 further accelerated the village's depopulation.

Today, Cucuron is a peaceful Luberon village that draws visitors with its well-preserved historic heritage, Provençal charm and natural beauty. It continues to celebrate its history while welcoming travellers who come to discover its cultural heritage.

The must-sees of Cucuron

Cucuron is a village that breathes, lives and shares itself with residents and visitors all year round. This village is brimming with charm and things to discover.

First of all, the pond at the heart of the village is one of its most emblematic sites. You can stroll around the pond, admire the century-old plane trees and enjoy the tranquillity of this picturesque spot. Wander through Cucuron's narrow lanes, lined with traditional stone houses, colourful shutters and charming squares. Losing yourself in this maze of picturesque streets is a genuine pleasure. Do not miss the Saint-Michel keep, a rectangular tower flanked by a 16th-century spiral staircase, a remnant of the keep of the 14th-century seigneurial castle, listed as a historic monument in 1921.

The Notre-Dame-de-Beaulieu church is one of the area's main attractions. The church evolved over time, incorporating various architectural styles, including Provençal Romanesque and Gothic. Built at the end of the 13th century, it is beautifully composed, skilfully combining diversity and unity. Set off on a hike, particularly to the Ermitage de Cucuron, and admire the Ermitage chapel, which still retains its spiritual character today thanks to occasional religious and musical events. You can also enjoy a family walk among vines and olive groves, accompanied by one of Netta's donkeys to reach the foothills of the Luberon massif, or simply set off alone on the Sentier Vigneron to discover the vineyards of Cucuron.

What is more, Cucuron has preserved numerous historic buildings, including stone houses from different eras, old fountains and picturesque lanes.

Living in Cucuron

Cucuron is a village where life is good. Cucuron offers a peaceful atmosphere and an unhurried pace of life.

The village of Cucuron, a small sun-drenched gem in the heart of the Luberon Regional Nature Park in the south of France, is much more than a simple Provençal village. This village is lively all year round, with a variety of events and festivities. The Southern Luberon is renowned for its natural beauty, and the village of Cucuron is no exception. Indeed, its hilltop setting also offers a unique panorama over the Durance valley.

Property prices in Cucuron

Property in Cucuron, as in many parts of the Luberon region in France, can be characterised by its Provençal charm, its traditional stone houses and its rural properties. Many houses have been carefully renovated to preserve their authentic character. Owing to its prime location, prices in Cucuron can be quite high. Indeed, the average price per square metre is around €4,100, though it can reach more than €7,500/m² depending on the property and its specifications.

Looking for a dream home in Cucuron? Do not hesitate to contact our BARNES Aix-en-Provence estate agency to discover our exclusive listings.