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Origin and history

Mirebel Castle, attested as early as 1172, was a strategic castle located on a rocky spur at 590 m above sea level, on the current town of Mirebel (Jura). Owned by the house of Vienna until the 15th century, it served as a seigneurial residence: John I of Vienna made it his usual place of stay around 1280, followed by his grandson Henri of Vienna (1364–mort). The site, organized into three areas bounded by ditches, included a 13th century square dungeon, a 15th century house adjacent to a thick enclosure, as well as a tank and a characteristic north tower.

In 1422 the fief passed to the family of Chalon-Arlay after the death of John of Vienna. The castle was partially destroyed in 1479 by the armies of Louis XI, then reduced to a watchtower before its definitive ruin in 1595 by the troops of Henry IV. The remains include corbelled latrines, archeries, and traces of missing buildings. The site, acquired by the municipality in 2002, has been listed in the Historic Monuments since 2007. A local association works to preserve and enhance it.

Architecturally, the castle illustrates the evolution of medieval fortifications: the 13th century dungeon, with its three levels and its window illuminating the second floor, contrasts with the house of the 15th century, pierced by wide openings. The less explored northern zone reveals a pink-coated tank and a quadrangular building with thick walls (2.10 m), suggesting an advanced work rare in the Jurassian castral typology. The 1.20 m thick ditches and enclosure underline its defensive role.

The first written mention of the castle dates back to 1172, but its existence has been attested since 1153. Linked to the domain of the Counts of Burgundy, it was a strategic issue until its destruction. Today, the ruins (donjon, house, north gate, cistern) and the soils are protected. The site, a communal property, offers an exceptional testimony of military and seigneurial techniques in Burgundy-Franche-Comté.

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