The photo of Sénanque Monastery is the first offered NFT in this exclusive collection, capturing the timeless beauty of one of France’s most iconic landmarks. The photograph is available for purchase in full resolution as an NFT in a public auction on OpenSea. Only one edition of this NFT exists and is available for purchase. The auction ends on April 30, 2025.
Nestled in a secluded valley near the picturesque village of Gordes, the Sénanque Abbey stands as a testament to both spiritual devotion and architectural mastery. Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian monastery has endured through the ages, offering a rare glimpse into a world where history, nature, and tranquility intertwine.
Surrounded by vast lavender fields that burst into a sea of violet during the summer months, Sénanque presents a scene that is both mesmerizing and deeply peaceful. The play of light and shadow on its ancient stone walls, the gentle rolling hills in the background, and the unmistakable scent of Provence all come together to create a setting that feels almost ethereal. This photograph captures that essence—a fleeting moment of serenity, now preserved forever in digital form.
Just beyond the abbey, the medieval village of Gordes rises like a crown atop the hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This entire region is a place of inspiration, sought after by travelers, artists, and dreamers who long to immerse themselves in its charm. Whether you have walked these cobbled streets or only admired them from afar, this NFT allows you to hold onto a piece of that beauty—an eternal invitation to step into the magic of Provence.
As the first NFT in this collection, this image is more than just a photograph; it is a gateway to an experience, a story, and a connection to a place that has stood the test of time. Secure your piece of this legendary landscape and become part of its legacy in the digital world.
The story behind the photograph of Sénanque Abbey is that of a remarkable day in June 2022, a journey that began in Marseille and led me through some of the most enchanting corners of southern France. It was a day brimming with discovery, where the landscape unfolded like a Provençal “tasting menu”—a feast for the senses.
From the grandeur of ancient aqueducts to the tranquility of centuries-old monasteries, from fields of lavender stretching endlessly into the horizon to the raw beauty of deep, winding canyons, the day was filled with unforgettable moments. Each location offered its own unique atmosphere, weaving together the rich tapestry of this stunning region.
The Sénanque Abbey, nestled in its serene valley, was one of the highlights of the journey—an emblem of timeless beauty and spiritual solace. This photograph captures not only the stunning architecture and landscape but also the essence of a day that felt like stepping back in time, into a world where nature and history coexist in perfect harmony.
The final glance from the hotel terrace promises a breathtaking day ahead. Bathed in the golden glow of the morning sun, Marseille unfolds in its full splendor, stretching endlessly towards the hills that embrace it. From this vantage point, the city reveals its vastness—a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean charm, waiting to be explored.
The first stop on our journey is the Roquefavour Aqueduct. This remarkable 19th-century structure stands as the tallest stone aqueduct in the world, reaching a height of 83 meters and spanning 375 meters in length. Constructed between 1841 and 1847, it was designed by engineer Jean François Mayor de Montricher to transport water from the Durance River to Marseille, effectively addressing the city’s water shortages. Its architectural design draws inspiration from the ancient Pont du Gard, featuring three tiers of arches that gracefully traverse the Arc River valley.
I can’t quite explain why aqueducts captivate me so profoundly, but I’m certain I’m not alone in this fascination. These architectural marvels, blending engineering prowess with timeless elegance, stand as silent witnesses to history, carrying the whispers of centuries past.
One of the main destinations of the day was Sénanque Abbey, a romantic gem of Provence, embraced by endless lavender fields. As we descend into the valley, we are immediately struck by the breathtaking harmony between the monastery and its surroundings. Nestled within this picturesque landscape, the abbey seems almost as if it has grown naturally from the earth, perfectly integrated into the rolling hills and fragrant fields. The sight is nothing short of mesmerizing—a place where history, nature, and serenity blend into a timeless masterpiece.
And then, as we park and walk closer, the true magic unfolds. A fleeting shadow glides over the rows of lavender, momentarily deepening their hues into rich, velvety purples. This natural play of light and shade creates a striking contrast against the sunlit stone façade of the abbey, highlighting its timeless grace. The atmosphere is almost otherworldly—serene, contemplative, and profoundly peaceful. It is a place seemingly designed for prayer, reflection, or simply losing oneself in the quiet beauty of the moment.
By the way, what was the name of the village where we turned off toward the abbey? Ah, yes—Gordes. Of course, we absolutely have to go back there, just as soon as we’ve had our fill of Sénanque Abbey and stocked up on lavender souvenirs. A glimpse of the town had already caught our eye from the car window—a fleeting preview of its beauty—and it would be a shame not to experience it up close. With its stone houses cascading down the hillside and breathtaking views over the Luberon Valley, Gordes promises to be yet another unforgettable stop on this Provençal journey.
Along the way, we stop by the roadside to buy a small box of the most delicious cherries, their sweetness the perfect companion for the journey ahead. Soon, we arrive at the vast plateau surrounding the town of Valensole, where endless fields of lavender stretch toward the horizon in every direction. The scent of Provence fills the air, and the sight is nothing short of mesmerizing.
As we reach the first roadside stop, we see dozens of cars parked along the way, with people wandering deep into the lavender fields in search of the perfect photograph. But there’s no need to stop just yet—miles upon miles of lavender await us, unrolling like a purple carpet under the golden sun.
If only we could find that one perfect spot—the one we had seen back home in a dreamy advertisement, with two lone trees standing against the vast expanse of violet. And then, just as we scan the horizon—there it is.
It’s already afternoon, but perhaps we still have time for the Verdon Gorge. According to the map, it’s not far, and the thought of seeing one of Europe’s most breathtaking canyons is too tempting to resist.
As we drive closer to the distant mountains, something unusual catches our eye. At first, it looks as if the foothills are lined with massive, perfectly rectangular rock formations. But wait—could it be a village? Yes, now we see it clearly.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. A town unlike any other, rising dramatically against the steep limestone cliffs, as if it had been carved directly from the rock itself. Its golden-hued houses cling to the mountainside, bathed in the warm afternoon light, creating a sight so surreal that it seems almost unreal.
This won’t be as easy as we thought. After navigating several winding switchbacks, a breathtaking view suddenly opens up before us—the shimmering turquoise expanse of Lac de Sainte-Croix. The sight is so mesmerizing that we can’t resist pulling over multiple times to take it all in.
But time is slipping away, and if we want to reach the Verdon Gorge before sunset, we have to keep moving. The road leads us through yet another valley, equally captivating, and once again, we find ourselves stopping again and again, unable to resist the sheer beauty that unfolds at every turn.
Beyond the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, we take a right turn, leaving the main road behind and beginning our ascent toward the cliffs towering over the canyon. With each curve in the road, the landscape transforms, revealing the raw, untamed beauty of this breathtaking region.
A mountain that, just moments ago, peeked modestly above the surrounding terrain now stands before us in its full majesty—imposing, rugged, and utterly magnificent.
And the view downward? A dizzying plunge into the depths of the Verdon Gorge, where the river carves its way through sheer limestone walls, shimmering like a ribbon of emerald far below.
And here it is—the Verdon Gorge in all its breathtaking glory. A masterpiece of nature, carved over millennia, revealing dramatic cliffs and deep emerald waters far below.
For the next hour or so, we’ll be winding our way along the canyon’s edge—first climbing, then descending—each turn offering new, heart-stopping views. Overhead, majestic birds of prey glide effortlessly on the thermals, only to return to their nests, tucked into the sheer rock face just across from us.
The man standing nearby has an impressively powerful telephoto lens. Next time, I’ll come better prepared.
For now, let’s just focus on staying on solid ground—whether perched at the lookout or navigating these narrow roads. One wrong step, and this view could become a little too immersive.
By the time we leave the canyon and make our way back toward Valensole, dusk has already settled over the landscape. At the end of June, that means one thing—I’ll be arriving at my privately booked accommodation very late.
My host is already calling, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and mild concern. Am I still coming? Yes, I assure him, I’m on my way.
When I finally pull in under the cover of darkness, he greets me with a relieved smile, helps me unload my suitcase from the car, and offers me a simple but heartfelt meal—a bachelor’s feast of store-bought risotto, reheated in the microwave.
We take our seats on the terrace, joined by his brother. A bottle of wine sits open on the table, catching the dim glow of the porch light. The conversation flows in a delightful mix of gestures, laughter, and moments of mutual confusion. Then, with a knowing smile, we all reach for our phones, firing up the translator app.
Next time, a little French might come in handy.