Ancient and Medieval Roots

Prehistoric Activity:

The area shows traces of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements, with a menhir (Peyreficade) standing as evidence of early human activity.

Roman Influence:

Likely a strategic outpost, the name "Caux" may derive from Occitan caus (lime) or pre-Indo-European cal-so (rock shelter), reflecting its geological and defensive significance.

Medieval Circulade:

Built in the 12th century as a spiral-shaped village (a circulade), Caux was designed for defense around the Church of Saint-Gervais-Saint-Protais, featuring Lombard-Romanesque architecture. Remnants of 12th-century ramparts and a 14th-century bell tower survive.

Survivor of the Black Death:

Only six villagers lived through the Great Plague of 1348, but the population rebounded to over 2,600 today

Volcano:

The village sits on the edge of an ancient lava flow from Les Baumes volcano, and its ramparts are built from dark basalt stone

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