Château de Calberte

Château de Calberte is a medieval castle sitting on a hillside in this southern Cevennes village, with a sturdy square tower as its main feature. The tower stands roughly 11 meters high with two levels and a crenellated top, while below it lie the foundations of a fortified settlement.

The first written record dates to 1092, when it already stood as a fortified stronghold. Over the centuries it passed between local noble families like the Anduze and Budos before being abandoned in the early 1400s.

The castle dominates the village landscape with its square tower rising above the surrounding houses and shaping how people relate to this hillside space. The structure shows how defense and living quarters were organized together in this medieval community.

The site sits on a steep slope, so expect uneven terrain and slippery conditions especially in wet weather. The area is rural and remote, so bringing water and sturdy shoes makes the visit more comfortable.

Its isolated mountain location kept stone thieves away from stripping materials as happened at other castles, so it remained relatively untouched. Since 1964 restoration work has carefully preserved its original character while excavations nearby have uncovered remains of about 15 medieval village houses below the tower.