Construction begins XIIIe siècle (≈ 1350)
Presumed period of initial work.
XIVe siècle
Continuation or completion
Continuation or completion XIVe siècle (≈ 1450)
Second period of construction mentioned.
13 juillet 1926
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 13 juillet 1926 (≈ 1926)
Registration by official decree of the belfry.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Origin and history
The belfry of Montbrun-les-Bains is an emblematic monument located in the village of the same name, in the department of Drôme (26), in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it is a typical example of medieval belfries, often associated with communal life and local power symbols. Its architecture reflects the construction techniques of this time, marked by the use of stone and a structure designed to dominate the urban landscape.
Ranked Historic Monument by order of 13 July 1926, the belfry is now owned by the commune of Montbrun-les-Bains. Although available sources do not specify its current use (visits, rentals, accommodation), its listing as Historic Monuments underscores its heritage importance. The location of the belfry, on the eponymous square, makes it a central point of the village, as evidenced by the GPS coordinates and the official address recorded in the Merimée base.
Medieval belfries, such as Montbrun-les-Bains, played a crucial role in the lives of local communities. They served not only as a watchtower for the surrounding area, but also as a symbol of communal autonomy in front of feudal lords or ecclesiastical authorities. In the regional context of the time, the Drôme, situated between the Provencal and Alpine influences, saw its villages organized around these buildings, which also rhythmized daily life by their bells (hours, alerts, gatherings).