Hidden beneath the Château de Saint-Martin de Pallière, this underground structure known as La Cathédrale Souterraine is one of the most unusual architectural sites in Provence.

Built in the 18th century, this massive cistern was designed to supply water to the château’s landscaped gardens. With vaulted ceilings rising 6 meters high and supported by 20 pillars, the space resembles a stone cathedral, both in scale and atmosphere. At the time, it was considered the largest cistern in Europe.

The château itself dates back to the medieval period, later transformed into a more comfortable residence by Provençal noble families. Today, the site remains privately owned, and visits often include insights into both the château’s history and the engineering behind this underground structure.

In summer, the space takes on a new dimension during the “Concerts en Voûtes” festival, where classical music performances make use of the cistern’s remarkable acoustics.

👉 Local Tip: Try to visit during a concert if possible. The acoustics inside the cistern completely change the experience and make it far more memorable than a standard visit.