Office de Tourisme de Tarascon

Tarascon has an impressive heritage to discover by sharing its traditions, festivals and the lifestyle of this beautiful Provençal town.
A heritage town rich in history, Tarascon preserves important evidence of the great architectural epochs. You will be captivated by the Provence castle, an impressive building, which was the residence of the princes of Anjou. On the occasion of medieval festivals during the third weekend of August, the castle becomes the majestic scenery of sparring and equestrian games that take you back dramatically to the time of the Tarascon tournaments imposed by King René. The castle stands facing the Sainte Marthe church, whose crypt houses the relics of the Saint.
Martha arrived on a beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer beside Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé, and settled in Tarascon after ascending the Rhone. Performing multiple miracles, she fought victoriously the "Tarasque", a monster who inhabited the banks of the Rhone and terrorised the population. Since 2005, the popular Tarasque festivals, which take place every summer, were proclaimed as Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The whole town is an invitation to discover classified and varied heritage with its picturesque streets, arcades, cloisters and chapels, and magnificent mansions. Tarascon is also a Provençal town that embraces daily its traditions and its lifestyle. In the old preserved centre, the Souleiado Museum reveals the secrets of making the famous "Indians" or Provençal fabrics. The Cité du Cheval allows you to meet the future stars of the show and equestrian art. A town that lives off the land, Tarascon meet your expectations with its gourmet Provençal market, specialities and fine tables. Nearby, between the Rhone and the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, Tarascon is your starting point for long walks and hikes between the Rhone, the Alpilles and Montagnette.