The city was already established in the 1st century. Then called Carbentorate, it will change its name several times, before becoming Carpentras in the Middle Ages. It comes from the Celtic carbanto (the chariot) and rate (the fortress). One can imagine that the vocation of the city was to watch over the passage of the chariots on the ford of the Auzon river which borders it. A more prestigious history begins in 1229, when it becomes a possession of the Holy See. At that time, the Comtat Venaissin and the State of Avignon formed two distinct enclaves in the kingdom of France. This original political and geographical situation deeply marked Carpentras and its surroundings whose destiny was linked to Rome (Pope Clement V established his curia there in 1313). It is only in 1791 that the Comtat became French. Over the centuries, the city has forged a strong and original identity as a capital city, which can still be seen today in its heritage. Beautiful mansions, numerous public and religious monuments inspired by Italian architecture, witnesses of the artistic and intellectual patronage of the prelates, and a unique heritage of Jewish culture with notably the oldest synagogue in France. The city is also renowned for its local produce. The weekly market is a real tradition that goes back to the origin of the city and is classified as an exceptional market for its atmosphere and the quality of its products. The vineyards of Carpentras are renowned for their AOC Côtes du Ventoux wine. This heritage gives Carpentras its character as a city of art and history.

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