Abbaye du Thoronet

Sites and monuments .

The Var monuments are discreet, they punctuate the landscape with humility. A generous, lush and fragrant nature serves as a haven for them. Having only rarely the flamboyance of a cathedral, often even discovered at the turn of a walk as a gift, they still carry a true emotion.

The must-see .

Thoronet Abbey

Thoronet Abbey – one of three Cistercian wonders in Provence

Thoronet Abbey is a real gem tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean forest. Classed as a 'Historic Monument', it is one of three Cistercian abbeys in Provence, alongside Silvacane and Sénaque.

Chartreuse de la Verne

La Chartreuse de La Verne – a jewel tucked away in the Maures Massif

Founded in the 12th century, the Chartreuse is tucked away in the heart of the Maures Massif, in the middle of a cork oak and chestnut forest. It takes centre stage with its stunning rays of golden sunshine.

Saint Maximin Basilica

St Maximin Basilica – the 3rd Christian tomb

Home to the relics of Mary Magdalen, this basilica is the third most important Christian tomb. Its construction began in 1295 under the reign of Charles II of Anjou, the Count of Provence, and continued for 2 centuries. Nevertheless, it remains unfinished - the main entrance and the bell tower were never built.

La Celle Abbey seen from above

La Celle Abbey – a remarkable Medieval monument

Built between the end of the 12th century and the beginning of the 13th century, this Abbey is a remarkable example of Provençal Roman art. Bought by the Var Department since 1990, extensive restoration works have taken place since then, with the aim of fully restoring the monument. The abbey is currently closed for restoration work until the end of 2020.

Villa Noailles vue du jardin

Villa Noailles – a jewel of modern architecture in the Var

Villa Noailles was built over 10 years (1923-1933) by the architect Rob Mallet-Stevens, under the direction of Charles and Marie-Laure de Noailles. It applies the founding principles of the Modernist movement: functionality, terraces, light, cleanliness, and purged of any decoration.

Fréjus Cathedral

Fréjus Cathedral cloister and its menagerie of fantastic animals

The Fréjus Episcopal Group includes a cathedral, baptistery, a former episcopal palace and a 2-story cloister, which make up a harmonious architectural ensemble. It was largely built between the 11th and 13th centuries, with the exception of the baptistery, which dates from the 5th century.

Château d'Entrecasteaux

Château d'Entrecasteaux

©Var Tourisme / Pascale Fluchère

All the monuments .

Beyond the major sites, the Var is full of sites and monuments that will stir your curiosity: Entrecasteaux castle, Regusse mills, Missiri mosque of Frejus, La Verdière castle, chapels with magnificent views like Notre-Dame du Mai to La Seyne, towers and campaniles …

See all sites and monuments

See all sites and monuments