Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Cingle Castle is a strong house built between the 14th and 16th centuries in the municipality of Vernas, Isère. This monument is distinguished by its architecture organised around a rectangular courtyard, closed to the west by a high wall pierced by a gate in the middle arch. The south wing, partially buried, consists of two floors of basement to the west and a vaulted cellar in cradle to the east, while a tower of staircase in screws, in semi-outbuilding, serves the floors from the southeast corner.

On 25 April 1975, the castle was partially listed as historic monuments (architects, elevations and roofs), recognizing its heritage value. Since 1989, its courtyard has been home to the Festival d'art et musique du château du Cingle, created by Paul Crapie (1934–2010), knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. This cultural event helped to anchor the monument in local and regional life.

Architecturally, the castle illustrates the characteristics of medieval strong houses, designed for both housing and defense. Its portal, stair tower and vaulted cellars bear witness to typical construction techniques from the 14th to 16th centuries. Today, there remains a preserved example of the Iserois built heritage, while playing an active role in artistic diffusion through its annual festival.

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