Château de Rochebonne, Medieval castle in Saint-Martin-de-Valamas, France.
Description
Château de Rochebonne consists of ruins from a medieval fortress perched on a granite promontory at roughly 850 meters elevation, overlooking the Eyrieux Valley and surrounding mountains. The remains include a central keep with arrow slits, residential structures, and a rectangular tower that formed the defensive layout.
History
The fortress was built in the 11th century and underwent expansion during the 13th century before eventually being abandoned. It was officially declared a ruin in 1734 and has remained in its current state since then.
Culture
The name comes from 'roche' meaning rock, referring to its rocky perch. Visitors can see how inhabitants organized their living spaces around the keep and adapted to life on this isolated summit.
Practical
A marked hiking trail leads up from the village of Saint-Martin-de-Valamas to reach the ruins. Access is free and available year-round, though the terrain is uneven and parts of the site are overgrown.
Did you know?
Local volunteers with the Association Les Amis de Rochebonne undertake regular restoration work on the site. Their efforts help stabilize the walls and make it easier to understand the original layout of the fortress.
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