Hike to the Saint-Ser chapel

20km from Aix-en-Provence, Puyloubier will surprise you with the Saint-Ser Chapel, located on the slopes of the Sainte-Victoire mountain, almost halfway up its height. Built as an extension of a cave, it perpetuates the memory of the hermit who, in the 5th century, came to seek refuge in this place.
Tradition holds that a hermit from Lyon led a frugal life of contemplation and prayer in this setting. The name that has come down to us, Ser, comes from the Latin word servus, meaning servant (of God). The hermit's reputation for holiness attracted many visitors, which displeased Euric, the Visigothic king who ruled Provence. The king decided to have the hermit killed in 484.

The former hermitage has now become a popular destination for walkers, both local and international, drawn by the surroundings and the site's exceptional beauty (2,000 to 3,000 visitors per year). To commemorate this reconstruction, the municipality was awarded a postage stamp issued on June 22nd and 23rd, 2002. It should be noted that over 1,200 stamp applications are submitted each year, with only 50 to 60 accepted. Furthermore, our country possesses a considerable historical heritage, making it very difficult to obtain philatelic recognition.

➜ More details on the downloadable route at the bottom of the page.