Discovering Provence - The Christian Heritage

Christianity in Provence brought persecution and conflict. From the first century AD, it also inspired remarkable legends, historical celebrations and imposing architecture.

Archaeological excavations in the Luberon Valley at Merindol reveal the terrible carnage from the wars of heresy and religion in the 16th century. Yet Les Baux-de-Provence, St Gilles and Avignon have left legacies of beauty and intrigue.

In 1942, members of the Maquis, the fighting arm of the wartime Resistance in World War II, were again seen by some as the new heretics against the Catholic Vichy regime.

* Arrival of the three Marys in Provence
* Saint Victor the martyr, the church and its biscuit boats
* Mary Magdalene and the building of the Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume
* The knights of Les Baux-de-Provence and the discovery of bauxite
* The olive oil industry begun by the Greeks
* The heretical Cathars, St Gilles church and Provençal architecture
* Avignon as the capital of Christendom and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
* The Vaudois, wars of religion and excavations in the Luberon Valley
* The Constance Tower, the legend of St Tropez
and its Les Bravade des Espagnols
* Liberation of Provence in 1944 after divisions in the Catholic Church
* Resistance by the Maquis, the fighting arm of the wartime underground

Six one-hour programs describe an unparalleled Provencal heritage in a remarkable society, in this sunny south of France. Historically accurate, this series is entertaining and informative, suitable for all ages.

1.The People of Provence
2.The Roman Heritage
3.The Christian Heritage
4.Archaeology in Provence
5.Marseille and Toulon
6.The Camargue