Château de Montalet, Medieval castle in Molières-sur-Cèze, France
Château de Montalet is a medieval fortress set on a rocky promontory 275 meters above the Cèze Valley in southern France. The structure spreads across roughly one hectare and combines defensive walls, arrow slits, towers, and living quarters built across different periods.
The castle first appears in written records around 1199, when the Bérard de Montalet family held it as their stronghold. In the 13th century, it burned during a siege led by Arnaud II, marking a turning point in its existence.
The name comes from the Bérard family who held the land, and visitors can read the story of different eras through the building itself. Ribbed vaults, mullioned windows, and fireplaces show how residents adapted their home across generations.
The site is reachable on foot from either Molières-sur-Cèze or Saint Ambroix, and both approach trails let you explore the surrounding landscape. Wear sturdy shoes and allow time for the steep climb to the ruins without rushing.
A large central cistern collected rainwater through stone channels, allowing defenders to endure extended sieges without outside help. This ingenious water system reveals how residents secured their independence during conflicts.
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