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Isle sur la Sorgue capital of antiques and bric-a-brac in Provence...
Since immemorial time, the steady, abundant
waters of the Sorgue river have powered crafts
and industry.
Sturdy waterwheels led to the establishment of
flour mills as early as the 12th century, then to
the creation of workshops which worked with
wool and silk. The picturesque water wheels
which today remain, imparting a special charm
to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, only barely represent the
seventy-two wheels which churned away in the
19th century, and the intense business activity
which thrived in the city center. Silk works
gave rise to immense fortunes, and Isle-sur-la- Sorgue was also the wool center for the entire
department of Vaucluse.
Isle-sur-la-Sorgue upholds the memory of the
former Jewish quarter, protected by the popes.
The thriving Jewish population actively contributed
to the city's prosperity. The importance of fishermen
also remains alive. On flat-bottomed boats known
as nego chin (english translation: drown the dog) Isle-sur-la-Sorgue fishermen took off
in all seasons to fish crayfish, trout, eel and grayling,
using many different tactics.
Twice a year L'Isle sur la Sorgue organizes the Foire Internationale de
Antiquités & Brocante (Antique & Brocante International Fair).
The 80th edition of this major fair will take place during Easter week-end,
from 26th to 28th March 2008.