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Key figures

Origin and history

The Château d'Epierre, also known as Cellar or Abbey d'Epierre, is a medieval building from the 12th and 13th centuries located in Cerdon, in the department of Ain. Originally, it served as a cellar, farm and agricultural dependency on the Chartreuse de Meyriat, now in ruins. Its architecture is distinguished by a 40-metre main body flanked by two three-storey towers, resting on vaulted cellars accessible by a rare suspended floor. This site, surrounded by vineyards on more than 50 hectares at its peak, illustrates the wine importance of the Chartreux in the region.

The monument is located in the hollow of a preserved valley, where the cascade of the Fouge – popular for its changing landscapes depending on the seasons – adds to its charm. The Chartreux had chosen a setting conducive to serenity, combining wine-growing and spiritual isolation. The buildings, partially renovated in the 16th and 18th centuries, suffered a fire destroying the parts of the 19th century, leaving only the old structures, including a chapel and 16th century amenities.

Ranked as a Historic Monument since May 30, 2005, the Spider Castle is now owned by a private company. Its inscription concerns the house, its farm and two surrounding plots, testifying to its historical role in the wine and architectural heritage of Bugey. The rarity of its suspended floor and vaulted cellars make it a remarkable example of medieval monastic architecture adapted to agricultural functions.

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