Circular towers of the castle 16e ou début XVIIe siècle (≈ 1704)
The oldest preserved elements.
XVIIIe siècle
Construction and development
Construction and development XVIIIe siècle (≈ 1850)
General organization of the estate and gardens.
23 juin 2003
Historic Monument Protection
Historic Monument Protection 23 juin 2003 (≈ 2003)
Registration of the castle and its gardens.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The castle and its gardens, in total, with all the constructions (pavillons, portals, walls of fence or support, walls, fountains, basin ...) , lapidary elements, hydraulic network, circulations and plantations (cad. AR 83 to 85, 97 to 112): inscription by order of 23 June 2003
Key figures
Information non disponible - No characters cited in the sources
The archives consulted do not mention any names.
Origin and history
Bourgane Castle, located in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt in the Vaucluse, is an estate whose general organisation dates back to the 18th century. It consists of a massed plan castle, flanked by two circular towers probably dating from the 16th or early 17th century, as well as a park and agricultural part including vineyards and orchards. This area illustrates the characteristics of a Provencal bastide, with a elaborate hydraulic system, tree-lined aisles, and spaces dedicated to enjoyment, fruit and vegetable cultivation, as well as to the agricultural economy.
The gardens of Bourgane Castle are inspired by the bastides of Provence, combining aesthetics and functionality. Typical features include a tesse (tonne), groves, and a hydraulic system that allows water to be played. The estate also includes historical outbuildings, such as an old water mill and the Cabaret farm, both classified as Historic Monuments. These elements underline the economic and landscape importance of the site, reflecting the lifestyle of the landowners of the time.
The castle and its gardens, including pavilions, fountains, ponds and plantations, were fully protected by a registration order under the Historic Monuments on 23 June 2003. Today, the estate belongs to a private company. Although the information on its access (visits, rental, accommodation) is not specified in the sources, its architecture and layout make it a remarkable testimony of the bastidary heritage of the eighteenth century Provencal.
