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Origin and history

The church Notre-Dame-de-Beaulieu de Cucuron finds its origins in the 13th century with a broken Romanesque nave, characteristic of the Provencal style. In the 14th century, the building expanded: the fourth span was vaulted with dogives, a pentagonal choir replaced the Romanesque abside, and two side chapels were added. This development coincides with the expansion of the village outside its medieval enclosure, the church becoming the religious heart of the new suburbs.

The parish was transferred there in 1541 after the collapse of the former church of Saint Michael, located near the castrum cited in 1017. The bell tower, which began in 1588 after the fall of that of Saint Michael, suffered delays due to malfeasance: interrupted in 1596, it was only completed in 1624 by the sons of Rolland Jacomin. Lateral chapels, financed by brotherhoods, simmer from the 14th to the 17th century, reflecting the devotional and social evolution of Cucuron.

Classified as a Historic Monument in 1961, the church preserves 16th and 18th century furniture, including an 18th century organ restored between 1975 and 1983. His present altarpiece, commissioned in 1661 for the Visitation of Aix-en-Provence, was acquired in 1801 after the disappearance of the high altar of 1517 during the Revolution. Architectural changes (Gothic vaults, chapels) and liturgical objects reflect successive adaptations to cultural needs and historical hazards.

The site is linked to the family of Sabran, lords of Cucuron since the 12th century. Elzéar de Sabran (1285–1324), Count of Ariano and Baron of Ansouis, illustrates this lineage that marked medieval Provence. Their influence was reflected in the urbanization of the village, protected by a new enclosure in 1541 against the threats of Charles Quint. The church, integrated into this wall, symbolizes community resilience.

Archaeological analysis reveals a complex stratigraphy: the Romanesque nave (XIIIe) contrasts with the Gothic choir (XIVe) and the Baroque additions (XVIIe). Local materials (grey limestone) and constructive techniques (broken cradles, dogid vaults) highlight adaptation to regional resources and know-how. The written sources, rare before the 17th century, leave a large place to interpret the remains.

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