Porte d'Eyguières

Four successive gates protected the only access to the village prior to 1632. To reach the Valley of la Fontaine, visitors can follow the gravel path of La Calade and pass through the Porte d'Eyguières or Porte de l'Eau (because it was through this gate that the water for the villagers arrived), which was the only entrance to the village until 1866. Rebuilt by the Constable of Montmorency, in the 18th century the gate was raised by the Prince of Monaco, who had received the Barony of Les Baux in 1643. The coats of arms of the Maison Grimaldi can still be seen above the doorway in a cartouche adorned with Baroque rinceaux. The gate still has its defensive system, a wall walk with a cornice cut through with gun casements. Coats of arms of the Maison Grimaldi (almost invisible today): the shield is tapered with silver and gules and surrounded by the collar of the Order of Saint Charles, placed on a red cloak lined with ermine and topped with the princely crown. Bearers: two long-haired, bearded Friars Minor wearing boots, each one holding a raised sword, standing on a banner which reads 'Deo Juvante' (With the help of God).

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