Perched at 925 meters above sea level, Saint-Jurs is the highest village on the Valensole plateau, offering a remarkable panorama of the Lure mountain, the Prealpes and the emblematic landscapes of Haute-Provence. The site bears the traces of a protohistoric and Gallo-Roman occupation, and still fits into a traditional agricultural environment mixing lavender, cereals and remains of rural life: fountains, ovens, dry stone houses, agricultural terraces. Only 11 km by flight from the Gorges du Verdon and 6 km from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the village occupies a privileged position in the heart of a territory of hikes, transhumances and preserved natural heritage.
The church of St George, located on a spur overlooking the site of the old castle, bears witness to the importance of the castrum Sancti Georgii, mentioned in 1096. It is part of one of the oldest Christian homes in Provence, under the influence of the Diocese of Riez, who was bishop since the fifth century. Dedicated to a very popular saint in medieval Provence, it has a remarkable authenticity: a forerunner novel of the late twelfth century with dome on tubes and radiant oculus, rare element in a small rural church; a vaulted nave in the 13th century cradle; and a Gothic choir of the 14th century, vaulted on a dogive cross. Its bell tower, ancient gate and local stone fittings reinforce its heritage character.
Reporting from the parish of Our Lady of the Assumption of Riez, within the diocese of Digne, Riez and Sisteron, the church today hosts occasional Masses and remains a living place during certain celebrations. In 2026, a restoration project planned the resumption of stone masonry, coatings, stained glass and painted decoration.
