Château-des-Baux in Provence

Château-de-Baux has a long and rich history, dating back to the 10th century with early texts documenting the château original name as being Château Balcio and the residence of Lord Pons le Jeaune.

In the 14th century the câateau became home to the Lord of Baux, who famously became known as 'the scourge of Provence', because he defied and rebelled the court of France and the pontifical power during his rein.

In 1426 Alix of Baux became the last member of the Baux family. She died in 1426 and a change of ownership to a distance relative, the Duke of Andria began.

In 1631 the château fell into the hands of rebels and destruction of the château's ramparts and high walls were destroyed by gunpowder and the citadel of Les Baux passed into royal hands.

A major discovery in the area surrounding Château-des-Baux by a chemist in 1821 of a red rock he titled 'bauxite' he discovered could be used to produce aluminum.

Fast forward to more modern days, the opening of the now famous restaurant 'L'Oustau de Baumanière' attracted many celebrities which helped in putting Les Baux firmly back on the map.

In 1993 the emergence of many culture and promotional events organised by 'Culturespaces' with Château-des-Baux as centre stage, with historical re-enactments and annual tourist events began taking place.

In 2007 a trebuchet, a bricole and a couillard were installed with the mighty trebuchet replica standing 16 meters in height with a unique non-winch mechanism now stands for all to see on the site at Château-des-Baux.

Official website: https://www.chateau-baux-provence.com/en/home