Perched village built above the river Paillon, between sea and mountains, Luceram has various aspects which make its charm. This old village, whose history is intertwined with that of the County of Nice has an important historical past. Situated on the famous Salt Road, Luceram has always been an important village and today we can still see its vast historical and cultural heritage (chapels Saint Great and Notre Dame De Bon Coeur, Church of St. Rosalie and St. Margaret of Antioch; "slit through the throat" Tower; Museum of Old Tools ...).

The hamlet of Peïra Cava is another aspect of Lucéram : this is the "Nature" side of the town. Here are beautiful landscapes, flora and fauna and outstanding outdoor activities. Peïra Cava is also a ski resort, the oldest of the department since it was created in 1914.

HISTORY

Lucéram is an ancient fortified city whose walls date from the Roman time. The fortifications and the castle were built under the reign of Charles 1st of Anjou (thirteenth century). The well protected city became then quickly rich.

This wealth even increased when Nice became part of the County of Savoy because Lucéram was a strategic place for trade and transport of goods between Provence and Italy. In addition, Lucéram was located on the Salt Road , so it was well positioned. This road was used to supply salt (very important commodity for preserving food) to the County of Savoy.

At that time, the population grew rapidly and the village expanded. In 1395, the construction of new fortifications begun to protect the northern part of Luceram.

LEISURE

Because of its long history, Luceram has a very important historical heritage. In the village you can visit the ruins of the castle dating from the sixteenth century and of which remain a beautiful circular tower with machicolations and murder holes and the ruins of the fortifications dating from the twelfth and thirteenth century .

The entire village can be visited; you will need courage to climb to the top of the village but its shady streets, arcades and various Gothic houses which are on the way are worth the trip. And once on top, after visiting the Church of St. Rosalie and St. Margaret of Antioch, you can admire a beautiful view of Roman rooftops and pastel-colored facades of the village. On the other side, you will have a panoramic view over the valley and the green hills in the area.

Outside the village, are the Saint Grat and Notre Dame de Bon coeur chapels, which are decorated with frescoes that are attributed to John Baleison.

Many activities related to nature are accessible around Luceram. The Peïra Cava resort offers wide range of activities, a climbing wall, two tennis courts, a bowling green and a playground for children. This is a very nice place in summer because the resort is high up so the air is cooler.

Many hikings start around the city of Luceram, including Valley of Wonders. During winter, the Peïra Cava ski resort, 1500m high, opens its slopes and lifts.

ACCESS

Luceram is 20km from Nice, between Coaraze and Sospel.
From Nice, go north, take the D2204 road, then, after the village of Escarène, take the D2566 road in the direction of Luceram.