Château d'Allinges-Vieux

Château d'Allinges-Vieux is a castle ruin perched on a ridge in Haute-Savoye, offering views of the surrounding landscape and neighboring fortification structures. The remaining stone walls reveal the foundations and architectural remains spread across the site, showing how the building once stood.

The castle was built around the year 1000 and changed hands between the Lords of Faucigny and the Counts of Savoy through marriages and conflicts until 1355. These struggles for control reflected the larger political tensions that shaped the Alpine region throughout the medieval period.

The castle holds protected status as a classified historical monument, marking its importance in French architectural heritage and regional medieval fortification development. Today visitors can observe how such structures shaped the medieval landscape and power distribution of the area.

Visitors can reach the archaeological site through marked paths leading up the hill, with free access to explore the foundations and structures. The grounds are walkable but require sturdy footwear due to uneven terrain and elevation.

The ruin forms part of a dual fortress system with Château-Neuf d'Allinges, showcasing how medieval territories were divided between neighboring strongholds. This unusual arrangement allowed both castles to control different strategic positions and provide mutual defense across the ridge.