There's one sound that sums up the whole of Provence: the song of the cicadas. This continuous chirping, omnipresent from the first heat of summer, is much more than just background music. For the people of Provence, it's the signal that the summer season has begun and that life is worth savouring slowly. Why do cicadas sing? When can you hear them? What do they symbolise?
Why do cicadas sing? (and only the males!)
Here's a piece of information that never fails to surprise: only male cicadas sing, And only to seduce females! This song is produced by the cymbal, an abdominal organ that vibrates up to 400 times per second in some species. This concert can reach 120 decibels. It's easy to see why they've been getting on for so long!
When can you hear the cicadas in Provence?
The singing season: June to September
Cicadas make their appearance as soon as the first real heat arrives, generally from mid-June. At Château de Berne and its 500 hectares of nature, their summer concert accompanies every walk, every meal on the terrace, every moment of relaxation by the pool.
Ideal conditions: warmth and full sun
The cicada is capricious: it only agrees to sing when the weather is warm and sunny, and at a minimum. 22 to 25°C. On cloudy or rainy days, it immediately falls silent. Its song is the barometer of summer in Provence.
The cicada, cultural icon of Provence
La Fontaine's fable and the literary tradition
It's hard to talk about cicadas without mentioning the famous fable by Jean de La Fontaine La Cigale et la Fourmi«. Provence has always claimed this the joyful art of living. During your stay, our seasonal activities will allow you to fully experience this Provençal philosophy of carpe diem.
The cicada in Provençal crafts and decoration
Painted ceramics, embroidered on tablecloths or sculpted on façades: the cicada is omnipresent in Provençal craftwork. When you visit Lorgues or Flayosc markets, You'll find them in all sizes and materials.
Experience the song of the cicadas at Berne Castle
At Château de Berne, the presence of cicadas is one of the first things our guests notice when they arrive in summer. This characteristic sound is the best way to understand what the Provençal people call the "cicadas". the art of living. Extend this sensory experience with a tasting of our rosé wines on the terrace at sunset, accompanied by a plate of Provençal specialities prepared by our kitchens. A moment you'll treasure forever.
