Situated on the foothills of the Pilat massif, in the heart of the Regional Nature Park, the village of Sainte-Croix- en-Jarez is enclosed by Carthusian buildings and made up of old retreats which have been turned into housing.
Some history
It all started with a legend going way back to the 13th century. Béatrix de la Tour du Pin, the widow of Guillaume de Roussillon, who was killed during the crusades, was one day taken aback by a premonitory vision. A silver cross surrounded by stars, coming closer to her, showed Béatrix the way to Pilat, the favoured place for the construction of a Charterhouse which was later named Sainte-Croix, because of the legend.
The charterhouse
Essential visiting
The charterhouse
A retreat which has been restored and preserved
Nowadays, it is possible to discover the whole of this fortification by taking the guided tour. Let yourself be guided through the traces of monastic life.
Also to be discovered during the visit
The hanging gardens
This retreat had a garden in which the Carthusian monk could grow pot plants or medicinal plants.
Out of the ordinary …
With glowing lanterns to guide you, a visit followed by a medieval supper.
All the family
The charterhouse has a discovery course with enigmas to solve specially designed for kids.
Archéo-kid
Accompanied visits at specific times during defined periods
The Chapelle de Jurieux (chapel) The chapel was built before the charterhouse of Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez. It has been entirely restored.
Footpaths
Suggestions for outings
Footpaths and information available at the Tourist Office.
Pratical information
Sainte-Croix-en-Jarez City Hall
Discover our region
