Colmars

Colmars
MOSSOT · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Name	Colmars
Arrondissement	Castellane
Canton	Castellane
Insee	04061
Postal code	04370
Mayor	Mireille Michel
Term	2020–2026
Elevation min m	1150
Elevation max m	2680
Area km2	81.82
Population	492
Population date	2021

Colmars. Colmars is a fortified commune in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France. Nestled in the Alps near the Italian border, it is renowned for its exceptionally preserved military architecture from the late 17th century, built under the direction of Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The town's strategic importance historically stemmed from its position guarding the upper Verdon valley and access routes like the Col de la Cayolle.

History

The site's significance dates to the Roman era, with evidence of a staging post along the route from Cemenelum to the Alpes Cottiae. By the Middle Ages, it fell under the control of the Counts of Provence and later the House of Anjou. Its fortifications were first mentioned in the 14th century during the wars between the Dauphiné and County of Savoy. The town's defenses were dramatically enhanced following the Invasion of the Dauphiné in 1690 by the Duke of Savoy, prompting Louis XIV to commission Vauban to modernize the town's defenses. This led to the construction of the Fort de Savoie and the Fort de France, creating a formidable barrier. Colmars was part of the Département du Var following the French Revolution before its incorporation into Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It saw little action during World War I and World War II, which contributed to the preservation of its historic fabric.

Geography

Colmars is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,250 meters in the upper valley of the Verdon river, just upstream from the Gorges du Verdon. The commune's territory extends into the high peaks of the Alps, bordering the Mercantour National Park to the east. It is accessed via the D908 road, which connects it to Allos over the Col de la Cayolle and to Castellane to the southwest. The landscape is characterized by alpine pastures, larch forests, and rugged terrain, with the Mont Pelat massif dominating the northern horizon. The local climate is alpine, with significant snowfall in winter and mild summers, influencing both traditional agriculture and modern tourism.

Sights

The town is distinguished by its complete ring of 17th-century ramparts, punctuated by two imposing forts. The Fort de Savoie (also called Fort de Savoy) on the north side and the Fort de France on the south are classic examples of Vauban's military engineering. Within the walls, the historic village features narrow cobbled streets, fountains, and houses dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. Notable religious buildings include the Church of Saint-Martin, with its distinctive bell tower, and the Chapel of the White Penitents. The Musée de la Motte, located in a former barracks, details local history. The surrounding area offers access to the Verdon Natural Regional Park, the Lac d'Allos, and numerous hiking trails like the GR 56.

Economy

Historically based on agro-pastoralism, including sheep farming for the wool trade with cities like Digne-les-Bains and Nice, the local economy is now predominantly oriented towards tourism. It functions as a gateway for the Mercantour National Park and the Gorges du Verdon, supporting hotels, restaurants, and outdoor activity companies offering hiking, skiing at the nearby Station de Pra Loup, and mountaineering. The production of artisanal goods, such as tome cheese and honey, persists alongside the service sector. Seasonal festivals, including a renowned medieval fair, also contribute significantly to economic activity.

Demographics

According to the latest census from INSEE, Colmars has a population of approximately 490 inhabitants, known as *Colmarsiens*. The demographic trend showed a significant decline from a peak in the mid-19th century, common to many rural alpine communes due to the Rural exodus and the impacts of World War I. Since the late 20th century, the population has stabilized and seen slight growth, attributed to residential tourism and the arrival of new residents attracted by the quality of life. The age structure shows a higher proportion of older adults compared to the national average, though an increasing number of young families are settling in the area.

Category:Communes of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Category:Fortified settlements in France