Tour Sans Venin

The Tour Sans Venin is a 13th-century fortress ruin situated on the Vercors foothills at about 2,185 feet (666 meters). Stone walls remain from the original structure, standing near a Romanesque chapel, with modern telecommunications equipment now occupying part of the site for the Grenoble region.

The fortress was controlled by the Dauphins of Viennois and served as a strategic defensive position, particularly in 1339 under François de Parizet. This location in the foothills provided crucial control over the surrounding territory.

The site carries marks of ancient worship, with a Roman stone bearing an inscription to the goddess Isis that was found near the chapel. These traces remind visitors that sacred practices took place here for centuries.

A marked path from the village entrance leads to the site with a moderate slope that most visitors can manage. The elevated position offers clear views of the surrounding landscape and the route remains accessible in most weather conditions.

The site blends two very different time periods: Romanesque chapel architecture sits alongside medieval stone walls. The roof tiles show Mediterranean design, which seems unusual for this mountain location and hints at old trade connections.

Location: Seyssinet-Pariset

Inception: 13 century

Elevation above the sea: 666 m

Made from material: stone

Part of: Seven Wonders of Dauphiné

Address: 1 Rue de la Tour Sans Venin, 38170 Seyssinet-Pariset, France

GPS coordinates: 45.17204,5.66814

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43