The old stone villages of southern France are the picture of ENDURANCE, this week’s photo challenge. Built in the 11th and 12th centuries (and some before!) these villages have withstood the test of time.

Two and three stories high, these medieval stones tell a story heard over centuries.

Traverse du Four in St. Jean de Buèges

House built into the cliff in Pégairolles de Buèges

Narrow street between stone houses in St. Jean de Buèges

Old stone houses dating to 11th and 12th centuries

Village of St. Jean de Buèges. Stone houses from the 11th century.

Roman bridge dating to 1st century

Old stone houses

The 12th century stones of St. Jean de Buèges that make up this townn

The mountains behind Le Château of St. Jean de Buèges obscured by clouds