Château du Barroux, Le Barroux, France

Since its creation, the Château du Barroux has been a seigneurial seat, passing through noble families until the 18th century. Originally part of the Principality of Orange and then the Toulouse domain, it became a fief in 1274 under the Comtat.

The castle, initially a fortified keep, was transformed in 1536 by the Rovigliasc family into a Renaissance residence with decorative windows. During the Wars of Religion, it was captured and retaken in 1563 but sustained little damage. Expanded in the 1680s with Vauban-inspired fortifications, it included artillery and defensive features, maintaining its military readiness.

In 1791, it was damaged by revolutionary forces and fell to ruin, serving as a quarry until 1929 when André Vayson de Pradenne began restoration. WWII saw it occupied by German forces, and it was burned down in 1944. Restoration efforts resumed in the 1960s, and the site, now open to the public, is preserved by the Vayson de Pradenne family and the 'Friends of Château du Barroux' association. Recognized as a historical monument in 1963, the castle hosts cultural events today.

User Reviews

Nick Moyler (9 months ago)
Amazing castle. So much restoration. Interesting exhibits.

Annekathrin Wulfers (2 years ago)
This little castle was a real sight on a hot day. Visitors were few. So we had all the time in the world to walk the old stairs and chambers. The view from the top down on the vineyards is just gorgeous.

Stephen Block (3 years ago)
This is a very fine structure, set in a commanding position with views to Mt Ventoux and over the vineyards and olive groves of this beautiful part of the Vaucluse.

Na Spa (3 years ago)
We arrived at the Chateaux after a long day of touring. The drive along the vineyard roads was very beautiful. It was 5:00pm and closing time was 5:30 so we opted not to pay the 8.50 eu entry. Instead we walked around the chateau and enjoyed the beautiful views. Mt. Ventoux can be seen along with the rolling hills countryside. Breathtaking. We shall return another time.

Gibby Kirwan (4 years ago)
Great place to visit. Super friendly from the start. This is a castle & a home in restoration so don't expect suits of armour etc. But you will see some breathtaking scenery of Provence below you. There's a great treasure hunt for kids, possible whiskey tasting for adults & yummy food in the café. The visit to the chapel alone is worth going. Also In need of restoration the frescoes are stunning. Look forward to seeing the progress in a few years time.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Infomastern

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Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.

There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.

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