A few weeks ago, Plaisirs et Maisons de Provence was talking to you about the Santon fair of Aix en Provence.

Now that Christmas is past, and that it will soon be time to put the nativity scenes in their boxes, we suggest that you discover an exceptional place where you can get ideas to improve your nativity scene. The Little Provence of Paradou.

Paradou, a quiet village is in the heart of the Alpilles Natural Regional Park.

Paradou is a charming little village located in the Alpilles Natural Park.

Less assaulted by tourists than some of its neighbors, the village of Paradou is a little treasure nestled at the foot of the Alpilles mountains.

Located between Maussane Les Alpilles, Baux de Provence and its impressive castle and the city of Arles, Paradou is a quiet village, full of charm and peaceful.  The village of Paradou has a rich cultural and historic heritage, with the remnants of old feudal castles which used to protect the region. In yesteryears, Paradou was a land of weavers where artisanal products of great quality were produced. From this past some traces are still found, like the ruins of many mills. Still today, Paradou is known for its artisans.  In the past they made cloth for the aristocracy of the region but now it is the traditional santons of Provence that the village wants you to discover.

The Little Provence, an exceptional place

The Little Provence is a museum located in the heart of the village of Paradou. It shows all year an impressive and unique collection in France of santons from Provence. The museum has almost 400 of these little clay figurines. These traditional Santons de Provence are all unique as they are created like in the old days, molded in clay and hand painted. The little Provence suggests that you discover unique santons, well displayed. You will discover scenes of Provencal life and will enjoy discovering all the details of this miniature Provence. A fun and original visit that you will enjoy as a family. You should also know the museum offers for young and old workshops to discover how to make santons de Provence. After a few basic instructions, you will make your own santons which you can paint later and keep to improve your nativity scene with a santon that you made yourself.

Plaisirs et Maisons de Provence suggests a stay in one of its vacation rentals in Paradou, to discover the beauty of this little village in the Alpilles and of its Little Provence..

If you wish to discover the riches offered by Provence, we invite you to contact our agency Plaisirs & Maisons de Provence or to ask for a custom-made bid by clicking on this link.