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Origin and history

The Alba Castle, also known as the Albe Castle or former Montravel Castle, is a 16th-century building rebuilt in the 18th century. Located on a rocky spur above L'Albenc in the department of Isère, it dominates the Isère valley, downstream of Grenoble. The castle was built in 1578 by the Châtelet family, who received 60,000 florins of gold in compensation for the dismantling of their castle in Polienas, ordered by the Baron of Gordes to prevent it from falling into the hands of Protestants. Originally named Montravel, he then moved to the family of Annoux.

The castle features circular corner towers and terraced gardens, characteristic of its architecture. Several parts of the building, including facades, roofs, terraces, dining room, kitchen, large living room and one bedroom, were inscribed in the Historic Monuments on December 28, 1978. Private property, the castle is not open to free visits, but it hosts guided groups during events such as European Heritage Days.

The construction of the Alba Castle is part of a historical context marked by religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants in Dauphiné. The dismantling of the castle of Polienas, considered too vulnerable, illustrates the measures taken by the local authorities to secure the region. The choice of location on a rocky spur reflects a desire for strategic control over the Isère Valley, while offering a residence adapted to the standards of the time.

The castle is located close to the departmental road 1092 and the A49 motorway, which facilitates its access from cities such as Romans-sur-Isère and Voiron. Its architecture, combining defensive and residential elements, bears witness to the changing needs of noble families between the 16th and 18th centuries, moving from a purely military function to a more representative and comfortable role.

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