Village of Saint-Germain
A medieval village with a rich past to discover, and some pre-historic sites that bear witness to its inhabitants due to the number of dolmons scattered throughout the riverbanks of Auzon, St. Germain to Lussas
A medieval village with a rich past to discover, and some pre-historic sites that bear witness to its inhabitants due to the number of dolmons scattered throughout the riverbanks of Auzon, St. Germain to Lussas
Discover the remains of the Bastide Royale, in the heart of Villeneuve de Berg The Bastide Royale was created in 1284 by a deed of betrothal between Philippe III le Hardi, King of France, and the Abbot of Mazan. This established royal justice over the whole of the Bas Vivarais and built a new town with its ramparts, its corner towers, its war gate or gate of honour adorned with the coat of arms of the town, its royal house, now the town hall (under the courtroom you can visit the prisons). Ancient sundials can be seen in the streets of the village.
Berzeme is located in the plateau of the Coiron. You leave the landscape of valleys and cliffs to discover lush green fields with green pastures and hedgerows.
It was the one of the oldest and most important fiefdoms of the Barons of Aps. Located at the foot of the Coiron, the village was fortified by the 14th century. You can imagine the form of the village by tracing the remnants of the defensive wall.
At the southern end of the village you will find an exceptional archeological and geological site, called Balmes de Montbrun. The name Balmes d'Montbrun or burned mountain, evokes its volcanic origins.
The construction of the church date the 17th century. No remains of that period are present today, but its existence is referred to as early as the 11th century.
At the foot of the Coiron can be seen a basalt "neck" (mass of volcanic rock), which is surely one of the largest in Europe. In the village remains of its medieval age can be seen on its fortified gate.
The church were once part of its fortification which have been referred to as early as 1137. The facade of the actual building has gone through a number of modifications but still has two remaining small towers surrounding it.
The church is part of the National Registry of Historical monuments. Dédicate to Saint-Genest, the church is believed to date the 11th or 12th century. It has been built on an older place of worship.
You will be surprised by the architectural richness found in the city. As you stroll through its walkways you will find old buildings with its royal architecture, and 16th century Hotels, and even its old prison interesting to see and visit.