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Le Thor
Le Thor 01x.JPG
Coat of arms of Le Thor
Coat of arms
Le Thor is located in France
Le Thor
Le Thor
Location in France
Le Thor is located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Le Thor
Le Thor
Location in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Country France
Region Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Department Vaucluse
Arrondissement Avignon
Canton L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Intercommunality Pays des Sorgues et des Monts de Vaucluse
Area
1
35.53 km2 (13.72 sq mi)
Population
 (Jan. 2019)
8,940
 • Density 251.62/km2 (651.7/sq mi)
Time zone UTC+01:00 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+02:00 (CEST)
INSEE/Postal code
84132 /84250
Elevation 38–111 m (125–364 ft)
(avg. 53 m or 174 ft)
1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

Le Thor is a charming commune located in the beautiful Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France. It is part of the Vaucluse department. A commune is like a small town or village with its own local government. Le Thor is known for its lovely setting and historical buildings.

Discovering Le Thor

Le Thor is a place where history and nature meet. It sits in a flat area, surrounded by the Sorgue river. This river is famous for its clear, cool waters. The town's location in the Vaucluse department means it is close to many interesting places. These include the historic city of Avignon and the scenic Luberon mountains.

Geography and Landscape

The area around Le Thor is mostly flat. It has an average height of about 53 meters (174 feet) above sea level. The lowest point is 38 meters (125 feet) and the highest is 111 meters (364 feet). This makes it a pleasant place for walking or cycling. The Sorgue river flows through the commune, creating a green and peaceful landscape. This river is fed by the famous Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a powerful natural spring.

The Sorgue River's Influence

The Sorgue river has played a big role in Le Thor's history. Its waters were used for mills and irrigation in the past. Today, it adds to the natural beauty of the area. The river also supports local wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Climate and Weather

Le Thor enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This means it has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The region often experiences the Mistral wind. This strong, cold wind blows from the north. It helps to keep the air clean and clear. The sunny weather makes Le Thor a popular place to visit.

A Look at Le Thor's History

Le Thor has a long and interesting history. People have lived in this area since ancient times. The town grew around its strategic location near the Sorgue river. Over the centuries, it has seen many changes.

Medieval Times and Beyond

During the Middle Ages, Le Thor was an important settlement. Many of its old buildings date back to this period. The town's church, the Church of Notre-Dame-du-Lac, is a great example of Romanesque architecture. It was built in the 12th century. This church shows the rich history of the area.

Notable Historical Buildings

  • Church of Notre-Dame-du-Lac: This beautiful church is a must-see. It is known for its simple yet grand design.
  • The Old Bridge: An ancient bridge crosses the Sorgue river. It reminds visitors of the town's past.

Life in Le Thor Today

Today, Le Thor is a lively commune. It combines its historical charm with modern life. The people, called Thoriens, enjoy a peaceful lifestyle.

Population and Community

As of January 2019, Le Thor had a population of about 8,940 people. The population has grown over the years. This shows that more people are choosing to live in this attractive area. The community is welcoming and friendly.

Local Government and Services

Le Thor is governed by a mayor and a municipal council. The current mayor is Jacques Olivier. These local leaders work to provide services for the community. This includes things like schools, parks, and public safety. The commune is part of a larger group of towns called Pays des Sorgues et des Monts de Vaucluse. This group works together on bigger projects.

Role of the Mayor

The mayor is the head of the local government. They are responsible for managing the town's budget and services. They also represent Le Thor in regional matters. It's a bit like being the principal of a school, but for a whole town!

Economy and Activities

The economy of Le Thor is based on several activities. Agriculture is important, especially fruit farming. Tourism also plays a big role. Visitors come to enjoy the history, nature, and local markets. Small businesses and shops serve the needs of the residents.

Local Products and Markets

The region is famous for its fresh produce. You can often find local fruits, vegetables, and other goods at the town's markets. This is a great way to experience the local culture.

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