Castle / Ruins Sights in Provence

The Chateau d'Ansouis was originally a fortress back in the 12th century and become one of the grandest mansions in Provence during the Renaissance.

Just outside the village of Gordes lies the archaeological remains of a Bronze age village. The Village des Bories dates back to around 2000BC. You can still see ancient sheep pens, stone beehive houses (bories) and bread ovens.

Sisteron's citadel wouldn't look out of place in an episode of Game of Thrones, with its imposing high walls, fortifications and impressive location looking down over the town below.

It was the first Renaissance château to be built in Provence, although a fortress has stood on this ground since the 12th century.

This is one of the best castles we have ever visited, and not just in France! Situated on a rocky outcrop, this fantastic medieval castle has a strong military background, where it was used in the defence of the realm of Provence.

The ruins of Fort de Buoux lie on top of hill at the head of the Apt valley. This defensive stronghold was used to protect the surrounding towns and land from Lourmarin to Silvergues and the ruins you see today date from the 13th century.

A wonderful castle to explore in the heart of the Vaucluse department, offering wonderful views over the surrounding areas.

The 15th century castle was built as a defence stronghold due to its position at the end of the River Rhone.

This lovely medieval castle has its origins as far back as the 11th century when the original fortress was built. It was transformed into a luxurious residence during the Renaissance before being somewhat deconstructed in the Revolution.

Originally a defensive fortress, this impressive château was built in the 12th century on a rocky outcrop overlooking the surrounding plains.

This austere castle has a rich Provencal history but it is perhaps best well known for being the burial ground of Pablo Picasso. He bought the chateau in 1958 when he found out that the area had been much loved by Paul Cezanne. He stayed there between 1959 and 1961 and the castle still holds some of his personal belongings.

This is a rock cut settlement above the present day village of La Garde, which was where the original inhabitants lived.

Built on the heights, the Chateau Lacoste has a dominant position over the Luberon. The breathtaking view enjoyed from the castle shows this village situation at the heart of the Luberon

This castle was first built in 1550 by Baron Jean-Louis-Nicolas de Bouliers and parts of its huge walls and intricately carved stonework still survives to this day. 

To get to this citadel which overlooks the pretty Medieval village of Entrevaux entails a pretty steep walk up 156m vertical over 800 metres of paved road.

This impressive tower was built in the early 13th century and served to defend the bridges over the Rhone in Villeneuve les Avignon.

This castle houses the town hall of Gordes and a museum containing works by the painter Pol Mara, a Flemish artist who lived in Gordes.

This castle was originally built at the request of pope John XII who was elected in 1316, with the castle starting to be built in 1317.