The capital of the department of Alpes-de-Haute Provence. Digne-les-Bains has been a thermal town since Roman Times because of its seven hot springs. Actually, it was here, Victor Hugo wrote the first chapters of Les Misérables. The town is also known as the capital of the lavender and every year in August there is a lavender festival with processions in the streets. The town’s greatest sight can without doubt be found at the outskirts of town. It is a cultural centre and museum, the Alexandra David-Néel-Fondation. The lady, who gave name to the place, spent most of her life on travelling around in Asia and from her many expeditions she brought home with her costly and rare objects which are now displayed in this very unusual museum. Digne-les-Bains also has a cathedral from the 13th century and a botanical garden.