Conference

The association “Les Amis de la Forteresse du Castellas” is organizing a lecture on the archaeology of early medieval castles in Provence, led by archaeologists Daniel Mouton and Mariacristina Varano. This is an opportunity to learn about the origins and evolution of the first medieval fortifications in Provence through archaeological research and discoveries. 

"Starting in the second half of the 10th century, Provence saw a proliferation of numerous small castles built by aristocratic lineages, some of which would go on to become illustrious families. Unlike the construction of artificial mounds (mottes), which were very common in other regions, the Provençals took advantage of natural terrain, which they adapted. The structures had a distinctly military character, but their layout varied greatly. Builders used materials available on site. The lifespan of these structures generally did not exceed a single generation, after which the site was either abandoned or radically transformed. The remains are no longer visible today; only archaeology allows us to explore them...."