In Tarascon, a Provençal gem with historic streets, two iconic sites reveal the rich heritage of Provençal craftsmanship. The Ciergerie des Prémontrés and the Musée Souleiado offer a captivating immersion into age-old crafts and the emblematic fashion of Provence.
The Ciergerie des Prémontrés: The Art of Light
Since 1858, the Ciergerie des Prémontrés has preserved a unique craft: the creation of exceptional candles using techniques dating back to the Middle Ages. It is now Provence’s last artisanal candle-making workshop, labeled as a «Living Heritage Company.» Here, each candle is meticulously crafted by the master candle-maker, with fascinating precision and devotion. Whether created «à la louche» (hand-poured) or as delicate molded sculptures, each candle requires hundreds of hours of painstaking work. This tradition, inherited from the White Fathers of the Abbey of Prémontrés, is a testament to a time when art and patience shaped each piece.
The Musée Souleiado and Its Textile Treasures
Nearby, the Musée Souleiado immerses you in the history of Provençal textile printing. Housed in a historic building, it tells the story of the renowned Souleiado brand, creator of «indiennes»-printed fabrics that have showcased Provençal style worldwide for over two centuries. Through immersive displays, visitors can explore an exceptional collection of fabrics, a rich and timeless legacy: printing blocks, period garments, and more recent creations that have marked past decades. The Souleiado cotton printing workshops, where artisans continue to keep the tradition alive, are also visible, providing a living glimpse into this textile art.
A visit to Tarascon, between the glow of candles and the vibrant fabrics, promises an unforgettable journey into Provençal craftsmanship, celebrating skills that have transcended generations and continue to shine today.
