Provencal Laundry all Washed up in France’s Lavoirs
Ginger and Nutmeg · Inspire · Provencal History & TraditionsWater sloshes against the sides of the shallow stone basin of the lavoir as weathered hands vigorously scrub at stubborn stains. Kneeling on their augets washerwomen exchange tidbits of town gossip as they work to brighten their laundry.
Before communal lavoirs, personal washing was done sparingly by the side of rivers or using precious well water. The washerwoman was often the lady of the house, or in instances of greater wealth, this was an outsourced activity. Laundry was done sparingly, often collected for many months in humidity-free attics or armoires.
This strenuous task was limited to a few times a year when the town’s washing was done over a three-day period a tradition called “la grande buée” or “la grande lessive” (the big wash).
Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence – Montagne St. Victoire: Full-day Wine tour from Marseille
Embark on a full-day wine tour from Marseille or its surrounding cities to the captivating Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, the westernmost vineyards of Provence.
Book this ExperienceLegal
All rights reserved. Perfectly Provence articles and other content may not be published, broadcast, rewritten (including translations into other languages) or redistributed without written permission. For usage information, please contact us.
Syndication InformationAffiliate Information
As an Amazon Associate, this website earns from qualifying purchases. Some recipes, posts and pages may have affiliate links. If you purchase via these links, we receive a small commission that does not impact your price. Thank you in advance for supporting our work to maintain Perfectly Provence.
Previous Post
Aix en Juin – the Prelude to the FestivalNext Post
Turner et la Couleur in AixRelated Provence Articles
The Cavaillon Synagogue and More Historic Jewish Sites in Provence
Roman Finds at the Musée Granet
Place d’Albertas in Aix-en-Provence Time for Improvements
The Pallières Windmill in Pennes-Mirabeau Back to Milling Flour
No Comment