Château des Baux

Les Baux-de-Provence, France

The Château des Baux is a fortified castle built during the 10th century, located in Les Baux-de-Provence. Although already inhabited in the Bronze Age, Les Baux-de-Provence did not really start growing until the medieval period. Built in the 10th century, the fortress and the small town it protects were ruled by the lords of Baux for five hundred years, in the thick of the ceaseless conflicts that ravaged Provence. It was also at Les Baux that the most famous minstrels and troubadours of the day sang songs of courtly love to the maidens of the House of Les Baux. In the 15th century, the lords of Baux were superseded by the barons of the Masons des Comtes de Provence. This was a golden age for the Château, before it came under the control of the kings of France.

From the 16th century on, family feuds and wars of religion brought on the decline of the town until the fortress was pulled down in 1633 on the orders of Louis XIII.

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Details

Founded: 10th century AD
Category: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Frankish kingdoms (France)

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Anna McCrea (6 months ago)
Very cool cobbled streets winding up a steep hill. Was more crowded with tourists than I expected which diminished a fair bit of the charm. It was a scorching hot day when I visited and there was little shade.
John Hamer (6 months ago)
Very interesting old ruin and village ( very touristy now) Parking can be a challenge on a busy day tho worth the effort. Lots of cafes in village. Stunning views from castle top.
J_Gogo (7 months ago)
A perched village that has survived for centuries in these hills of Provence. Very characteristic full of shops and shops that give a full experience. The castle is huge and dominates the hill, It's practically a ruin, but it welcomes many organizations from the site managers who bring it back to life.Definitely a beautiful place for families that knows how to delight with its numerous views of the gardens or even the archery game as it was back in the day.
Kerry Stevens (7 months ago)
Very, very touristy. Crowded during peak season. Basically, a mall in a medieval village with a great view. But if shopping is your thing, then you'll likely love this place. Free public toilet.
Eddy Khoo (11 months ago)
One of best castle ruins in a village we have visited. Outside the castle ruins, there is a plateau. When you walk up to the edges, a 270’ breathtaking view of the surroundings greets you. The walls of the ruins itself have been weathered to some extent which makes some of them look like honeycombs. The ruins extend quite a distance inside and there are 3 places which you can climb up to for better vantage point. For weaponry of medieval times, you can see several trebuchets and a battering ram on the castle grounds. Ticket are priced at EUR 8/adult, which is worth it. Spend a couple of hours here to enjoy the walk and climb. Soak in the history.
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