Les Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin

Beneath the picturesque streets of Gordes lies a hidden world: Les Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin, a labyrinth of chambers, workshops, and oil mills carved into the limestone rock. This underground complex dates back to the Middle Ages and was used by the Knights of Malta as a commandery. Visitors descend into the cool, dimly lit passages to discover a series of rooms that once served as bakeries, wine presses, olive oil mills, and storerooms. The site includes a large vaulted hall, a chapel, and a well-preserved oil mill with its grinding stone. Exhibits explain the traditional techniques of olive oil production and the daily life of the workers. The caves offer a fascinating contrast to the sun-drenched village above, providing insight into the resourcefulness of past inhabitants who used the rock as a natural building material.

Don't miss

• Underground olive oil mill with original press
• Vaulted chamber used as a chapel
• Exhibits on traditional crafts and daily life
• Cool, atmospheric tunnels and rock-cut stairs
• Historical tools and machinery on display

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Les Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin

Cheapest way inGuided tour of the castle4.8★ · 16 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →Most bookedVersailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris4.4★ · 4,184 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Cappadocia Tour with Underground City5★ · 209 travelers4–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →