Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The castle of Malijai finds its origins on the foundations of a seigneurial house acquired in 1632 by Melchion de Masargues, a lawyer and adviser to the king in the Parliament of Provence. Between 1635 and 1642 he had a castle erected in place of this house. This first building, transformed over the centuries, marks the beginning of the monumental history of the site.

In the 18th century (circa 1760-1770), the castle was bought by Pierre-Vincent Noguier, a merchant and general receiver of the finances of Provence. His family is undertaking important work: global restoration and addition of a second floor, still visible today. These changes reflect the economic and social influence of the Provencal bourgeoisie of the time.

A notable event occurred in 1815 when Napoleon I, en route to Paris during the Cent-Days, made his stop at the castle on the night of March 4 to 5. He was received there by Edouard Noguier, descendant of Pierre-Vincent. This passage illustrates Malijai's strategic role on the region's communication lines.

In 1983, the ground floor of the castle is classified as a historical monument for the exceptional quality of its gypseries. The same year, Malijai town hall moved to the first floor, where it still sits. This dual use, administrative and heritage, highlights the anchoring of the castle in contemporary local life.

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