Ayas

Ayas is a small commune in the southeastern part of France, located in the Alpes-Maritimes department within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d´Azur region. The municipality covers an area of roughly 16 square kilometers and sits at an elevation that ranges from about 535 meters to 1,402 meters, giving it a varied mountainous terrain. As of the most recent census, the population is just under 1,000 residents, reflecting its status as a rural community with a close-knit social structure.

The history of Ayas stretches back to prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence pointing to Bronze Age settlements in the surrounding hills. During the medieval period, Ayas developed into a fortified bastion on the strategic trade routes linking the interior of the French alpine plateau to the Mediterranean coast. The remains of its original walls and a medieval castle can still be found on the high plateau above the village, offering insight into its defensive importance. The town was also one of the many in the region that suffered during the French wars of religion in the 16th century, and its reconstruction incorporated both secular and religious architectural styles.

Today, Ayas is known for its pastoral economy focused on livestock grazing and small-scale forestry. Seasonal tourism also plays a role in the local economy, as visitors are attracted to the well-preserved medieval architecture, scenic hiking trails, and the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The local church of Saint John the Baptist, built in the 12th century, stands as a centerpiece of the village and serves both religious and cultural functions. Because of its rich historical heritage and natural beauty, Ayas remains a minor but distinct point of interest on maps of the French alpine region.