Château de Chamaret

The origins of the Château de Chamaret date back to 1136, when Dodon I of Chamaret began constructing a feudal fortress, completed in 1157 under Dodon II. Following an inheritance division in 1254, Amalric of Chamaret, from a younger lineage, built his own keep, now known as “Le Pigeonnier”. At this time, two brothers shared dominion over the fortress. Amalric submitted to the Bishop of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, while his elder brother remained independent until he was subjugated by the Adhémar in 1255. Consequently, the Bishop and the Adhémar shared suzerainty, and a wall was erected between the two towers. In 1506, the Adhémar family gained full possession of Chamaret and converted the south tower into a dovecote. The complex was repeatedly affected during the Wars of Religion and frequently changed hands. Parts of the northern castle collapsed in 1696 and again during the 1772 earthquake, but the main tower withstood. In the 19th century, the site served as a quarry for villagers. A partial restoration of the tower and the rock platform took place between 1894 and 1895 thanks to a legacy, including the installation of a bell. Archaeological investigations were carried out after its inclusion in the supplementary inventory of historical monuments in 1992.

The castle ruin of Château de Chamaret is situated at an elevation of approximately 204 meters above sea level.

Today, only remnants of the two fortifications, the keep, and two residential buildings of the Château de Chamaret remain. The square tower, interpreted as a signal tower, is the best-preserved part and offers extensive views from its summit. The castle ruin is accessible to visitors.