Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Germany-en-Provence finds its origins in a square dungeon attested since 1380, transformed by the Barons of Castellane. In the middle of the 13th century, the latter took refuge there after being expelled from their fief for their support of the Marseille revolts. The enclosure, then equipped with five towers now missing, served as strategic protection.

At the beginning of the 15th century, François de Castellane and his son Melchior completed the construction of the castle, integrating Renaissance houses around a rectangular courtyard flanked by round towers. The building thus combines medieval, reborn and Provençal architectures, reflecting the stylistic evolutions and defensive needs of the period.

In 1586, Jeanne de Grasse resisted 16 days of leaguers in the castle, waiting in vain for the help of her husband, Nicolas du Mas de Castellane, killed by a musket fire. Their son, Alexander, died in 1611 during a duel, leaving Martha d'Oraison, her widow, to manage the estate. She later founded the Capuchines convent in Marseille, marking the religious and social influence of the family.

The castle changed hands at the end of the 16th century, passing between several Provencal families. In 1839, Marquis Rippert-Monclar undertook important restorations, continued by his son. In 1936, the widow of the latter bequeathed the castle to the free schools of the dioceses of Digne and Avignon.

After the Second World War, the castle became a holiday colony managed by the confectionery union of Apt, until its acquisition in 1977 by a private couple, Mr. and Mrs. Ruger. Ranked a historical monument in 1986, it now embodies a hybrid architectural heritage, witness to the noble struggles and social transformations of Provence.

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