Village des Bories
About
Village des Bories is an open‑air museum in the Vaucluse department of southeastern France, approximately 1.5 km west of the village of Gordes. The site preserves a cluster of rustic dry‑stone huts—known locally as “bories” or “cabanes”—that were historically used seasonally by Provençal farmers for storage, shelter, and small-scale production. Recreated in 1976 by horticulturist Pierre Viala, the museum showcases the distinctive Gordoise nave architecture, the half‑domed ovens, sheep‑shelters, and the everyday life of rural Provence. Listed as a historic monument since 1977, the museum offers visitors the chance to wander among 28 stone buildings, explore ancient agricultural practices, and immerse themselves in a setting that traces back over two millennia.
Highlights
- Dry‑Stone Huts
- Gordoise Nave Architecture
- Historic Monument Status
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring to early autumn offers mild weather and lively vegetation for a pleasant visit.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours