Saorge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Saorge
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 Saorge
Location in France
Saorge
Location in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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| Country | France | |
| Region | Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur | |
| Department | Alpes-Maritimes | |
| Arrondissement | Arrondissement de Nice | |
| Canton | Breil-sur-Roya | |
| Area
1
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86.78 km2 (33.51 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2006)
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431 | |
| • Density | 4.967/km2 (12.863/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
| INSEE/Postal code |
06132 /06540
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| Elevation | 319–2,680 m (1,047–8,793 ft) (avg. 500 m or 1,600 ft) |
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| 1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | ||
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Saorge is a small and charming commune (like a town or village) located in the Alpes-Maritimes department in the south of France. It is part of the region called Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Saorge is famous for its unique position on a steep hillside and its beautiful old buildings.
Saorge: A Mountain Village in France
Saorge is a special village nestled high in the mountains of southeastern France. It's known for its amazing views and its traditional, ancient feel. The village seems to cling to the side of a mountain, with houses built very close together. This makes it look like a giant staircase from a distance.
Where is Saorge?
Saorge is found in the French Alps, close to the border with Italy. It's situated in the Roya Valley, which is a deep valley carved by the Roya River. The village is about 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) above sea level. This high location gives it cool air and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A Glimpse into Saorge's Past
Saorge has a very long and interesting history. It was an important place for trade and travel between France and Italy for many centuries. Because of its location, it was often involved in conflicts between different powers.
Medieval Times and Beyond
The village grew around a castle in the Middle Ages. Its strong position on the hillside made it easy to defend. Over time, Saorge became known for its religious buildings, especially its monasteries and churches. These old buildings tell stories of the people who lived there long ago.
Part of France
For a long time, Saorge was part of the County of Nice and then the Kingdom of Sardinia. It only became part of France in 1860, along with the rest of the County of Nice. This change brought new connections and developments to the village.
Exploring Saorge's Unique Look
Saorge is famous for its unique architecture. The houses are built very close together, often with stone walls and red-tiled roofs. The streets are narrow and winding, sometimes even covered by arches or tunnels. This design helped protect the village from invaders and the harsh mountain weather.
Notable Buildings
- Monastery of Saorge: This is a very old Franciscan monastery that dates back to the 17th century. It's a beautiful building with peaceful courtyards and gardens.
- Saint-Sauveur Church: The main church in Saorge is known for its impressive bell tower and its rich decorations inside. It's a great example of Baroque art.
- Chapels: There are several small, old chapels scattered throughout the village. Each one has its own history and unique features.
Nature Around Saorge
The area around Saorge is full of natural beauty. It's part of the Mercantour National Park, which is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Mountains and Rivers
The village is surrounded by high mountains, offering many paths for hiking and exploring. The Roya River flows through the valley below, adding to the scenic beauty. The river is clear and cool, perfect for mountain streams.
Plants and Animals
The Mercantour National Park is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. You might see ibex (wild goats), chamois (another type of mountain goat), and even golden eagles flying overhead. The forests are filled with pine trees and other mountain plants.
Life in Saorge Today
Today, Saorge is a quiet village with a small population. Many people who live there enjoy the peaceful mountain life. Tourism is important, as visitors come to see the historic buildings and enjoy the natural beauty.
Local Culture
The people of Saorge are proud of their heritage. They often celebrate local traditions and festivals. The village has a strong community spirit, and neighbors often help each other.
Getting Around
Because of its steep streets, Saorge is best explored on foot. Walking through the village is like stepping back in time, with new discoveries around every corner. There are also trains that connect Saorge to other towns in the valley and to the coast.
Related pages
See also
In Spanish: Saorge para niños
