Château de Rochebaron
The ruined castle of Château de Rochebaron stands on an imposing rock at 653m altitude in the foothills of Forez not far from the River Loire. The only way to reach the castle is by a 20 minute walk, but the magnificent spectacle that awaits you is well worth the effort !
Château de Rochebaron castle on the edge of Velay
The ruined castle of Château de Rochebaron stands on an imposing rock at 653m altitude in the foothills of Forez not far from the River Loire. The only way to reach the castle is by a 20 minute walk, but the magnificent spectacle that awaits you is well worth the effort !
The panoramic view of the Loire Valley from the ruins of what was once one of major castles of Haute-Loire is quite simply mind-blowing – an absolute must for all lovers of vertiginous heights ! The ruins consist of the outer walls, a round tower and a triangular tower and an adjacent farm which has been totally restored. Abandoned during the reign of Louis VIV, the inner quadrangle gradually fell into ruins.
This fine example of medieval military defensive architecture became a listed monument in 1951. It is believed that construction of the original castle and four-sided keep began in the 12th century.
Château de Rochebaron : events and festivities
Since 1972, a group of volunteers « Les Amis de Rochebaron” have devoted themselves to keeping the castle alive. The art of falconry takes on a new dimension here at the castle as what was once a privilege reserved for lords is now a fascinating display for children and adults. 3 different volunteer groups work together to animate the site :
- Carnifex, medieval torturer and story-teller, better-known as the Tourmenteur Maistre Armelin alias “Brise Garrot”
- Ailes de Rochebaron (‘Volerie’, displays by birds of prey : eagles, owls, hawks and falcons)
- Association de danseurs saltimbanque (dancers and entertainers).
- Events are held all year round, especially featuring the birds of prey between Easter and October. Group visits and birthday parties by prior arrangement.
- La Rochefarandole is a group of dancers representing figures from Arthurian legend, an opportunity to discover traditional medieval and Renaissance dances. In autumn, Halloween is celebrated at the castle with horrifying activities and a delicious tea for children. In April, a giant Cluedo takes place at Easter and an escape game is under creation.
- In summer, the Volerie offer walks in the company of a falconer and his birds. Discovery courses are also available for intrepid, would-be falconers !
A docu-fiction around 20 minutes long was made by the late André Pélissier, in honour of the castle. “Le Tunnel de Roche Baron” is a collection of first-hand accounts from old inhabitants of Monistrol sur Loire and Bas-en-Basset about the fictional construction of a tunnel under the River Loire linking the Chateau of Roche-Baron and the Château des Eveques at Monistrol sur Loire. This is a pretext for tracing the history of the Roche-Baron lineage and their struggle for power. Legend has it that the last owner of the castle was guillotined, which must be why such a terrifying atmosphere reigns in the castle. Come and see for yourself !
Discover the treasures of Haute-Loire, Massif du Mézenc-Meygal and historic buildings of Puy-en-Velay."
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