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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The castle of Preignes-le-Vieux, located in Vias in the Hérault, is mentioned from the twelfth century under the name of ecclesia Sancti Petri de Prenias in the cartular of Agde. Its name derives from the Latin plumias ("prunier"), distinct from the Gallo-Roman domain Preissan cited in 936. In 1965, remains of a Roman villa and 2,000-year-old amphorae were discovered, attesting to an ancient occupation.

The current fortress was built between 1202 and 1220 by Viscount William of Pézenas, near a chapel of the late twelfth century, to counter threats such as the Cathars or the Black Prince. Owned by the Bishop of Agde, it served both as a parish and as a seigneurial residence. The castle was renovated in the 16th century, then transformed into a wine estate after its acquisition in 1905 by the Vic family, still owner today.

Architecturally, the castle includes a three-storey main house body, flanked by round towers (north and west) and a square tower with screw staircase. A courtyard closed by a courtine and a south-east gate adorned with a complete grid, built in basalt. Nearby, adjoining buildings house a 12th century chapel, a forge, and a pigeon house. The estate extends over 150 hectares of vines, producing wines in AOP Coteaux-de-Béziers from grape varieties such as syrah or garnache.

Ranked a historic monument in 1995 for its facades, roofs, chapel and dovecote, the castle combines medieval heritage and wine-growing activities. The renovations of the 1950s allowed the Vic family to reside there, while preserving its historic character. Today, the site remains private but open to some visits, testifying to its evolution from the fortress to the contemporary domain.

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