Malijai
Departement of the Alpes de Haute Provence - Pop.: 1.600 inh.
BetweenSisteron and Digne via the "route Napoléon" (the N85) or via the A51 autoroute exit Peyruis-Les Mées, then the D4 on the left.
Malijai is a small village situated on the right bank of the Bléone river, founded in the 12th century.
Strategically situated between Sisteron and Digne, Malijai is difficult to miss...
Malijai possesses an elegant chateau where Napoleon stayed on his return from Elbe Island on the night of 4 March, 1815.
This delightful chateau today houses the town-hall and on the ground floor you can admire a beautiful collection of plaster mouldings in Louis 16th style.
Those interested in architecture will appreciate the classic design of the chateau and its interior decoration typical of the end of the 18th century.
You can also admire the park laid-out in classic French style, pleasantly shaded by plane trees, with a boules playing area nearby.
While walking in the village, you will come across the Saint-Christophe church which has beautiful windows, paintings and an interesting choir fresco.
Visitors who enjoy exercise can walk to the Saint-Florent farm, about 5 km from the village.
After having climbed the left bank of the river, you will discover the old abandoned village of Chenerilles on the edge of the Puimichel plateau, surrounded by superb countryside.
What to see:
18th century chateau. French-style garden.Saint-Christophe parish church, rebuilt in 1839.
Chénerilles hamlet (abandoned village).
Leisure activities:
Hiking and mountain biking.Village festival in July.
Market in December.
Accommodation:
Holiday rentals. Furnished apartments. Neighbouring towns and villages:
L'Escale (5km), Les Mées (5km), Mallemoisson (5km), Château-Arnoux (6km).
