Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Bar-sur-Seine is an ancient medieval castle whose remains dominate the city of Bar-sur-Seine, in the Aube department, in the Grand Est region. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it occupied a key position on the border between Champagne, the vassal county of the King of France, and Burgundy, allied to the English during the Hundred Years War. At that time, it was considered the most important castle of Burgundy, due to its geographical location and defensive role.

A first feudal motte, reinforced by Milon IV, served as the basis for the extension of the castle, which marries the shape of a triangular promontory. A low courtyard, square plan, extends it southward. The lower room, known as the Guards' Hall, is vaulted with dogives and was listed as historical monuments in 1982. Accounts from 1424 mention repairs in a "squire room", probably at the foot of the dungeon.

Between 1220 and 1223 Ellissendre, the widow of Milon IV, had to manage a conflictive succession after the death of her husband and their two sons. Bar County was finally sold to Thibaut I of Navarre in 1223. This political context marked the history of the castle, reflecting the feudal tensions of the time.

Today, the remains of the castle, including the guard room and adjoining walls, have been protected since 1982. The site belongs to the municipality of Bar-sur-Seine and still bears witness to its strategic importance in the Middle Ages.

External links