Located nearly equidistant between Marseilles, Grenoble, and Avignon, lies Sisteron, otherwise known as “the gate to Provence”, in the south of France. Situated 180 km from Nice, it is next to the Durance River, not far from the Alps and the famous Sault plateau.
Originally a prehistoric town, then later a fortified town of the counts of Provence before the 7th century, Sisteron was bestowed to Louis XI in 1483, when it joined the kingdom of France. Less than one hundred years later, the Anglo-Saxon Protestants and the Catholics fought over which side would claim the city and its fortress.
Visitors today may find a plethora of activities to do and places to see within Sisteron. The “Old Town” enchants visitors through its Roman past, along with its architectural splendor and ramparts. The ramparts are known to be the tallest, and best-preserved in France, standing the tests of many battles and time since 1370.
The Citadel, classified as a historic 
monument, is open to the public from the end of March until November 11th. It overlooks the entire city, and it is known as the masterpiece of this city. Visitors may enter the Citadel, which houses a museum with exhibitions, a chapel, and other interesting sights. The Notre Dame et Saint –Thyrse Cathedral is open to the public, and provides guided visits as well as free admission. Sisteron also boasts other religious venues such as St. Dominique and St. Marcel, both free to the public.
Interesting museums abound, such as the Municipal Museum of Earth and Time, with its artifacts to pique the visitor’s interest, offering an explanation for the passage of time in nature. Entry is free. There is also the “Old Sisteron” Museum highlighting its Gallo-Roman history. The Scouting Museum celebrates (Boy Scouts), and the Eco-Museum, which are both free for the entire family.
Sisteron and its environs are a joy to visit, and ideally located en Haute Provence region. Not far from the Sault plateau, known for its beautiful lavender fields, it is family-friendly, full of history, and offers plenty of fascinating activities for the Francophile.
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