Promenade du philosophe

A plaque in the geological reserve gives directions to Pierre Gassendi’s birthplace. The panoramic view is superb over the Cousson mountain and the Dourbes bar.

Pierre Gassendi, known as Gassendi, was born here in 1592 into a modest family. He studied and became a doctor of theology at the faculty of Avignon, then was ordained a priest. From 1613 to 1623, he taught philosophy at the University of Aix-en-Provence. Passionate about astronomy, he made numerous observations throughout his life. He adhered to the Copernican system and corresponded with Galileo. Provost of Digne from 1626, he divided his time between Digne and Paris where he taught mathematics at the Collège royal from 1645 to 1648.