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Origin and history

The tower of Avalon is an iconic building erected in 1895 by the Chartreux in Saint-Maximin, in the department of Isère. It was built to pay tribute to Saint Hugues d'Avalon, a major religious figure of the twelfth century. The tower rises on the remains of the ancient medieval castle of Avalon, from which it takes over the foundations of the original dungeon, thus showing a historical continuity between medieval and modern times.

The site of the tower corresponds to the location of an old watchtower of the natal castle of Hugues d'Avalon, bishop of Lincoln in England (1140-1200). This castle, belonging to the noble family of the Romestang of Avalon, is attested before 1049 and illustrates the strategic importance of the Upper Gresivaudan at this time. The present, though recent, tower perpetuates the memory of this medieval heritage while symbolizing the local devotion to Saint Hugues.

Since 5 October 1992, the Avalon Tower has been protected for historical monuments, recognizing its heritage and cultural value. Today it is the property of the municipality of Saint-Maximin and remains a place full of history, mixing medieval heritage, Chartreuse spirituality and memory of a venerated saint far beyond regional borders.

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