Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The dungeon of Soubès, located in the upper part of the village, is part of a castral complex linked to two co-seigneuries attested from the twelfth century. Although the main seigneury may date back to the 10th century, the castrum appeared in the texts only in the middle of the 12th century, when probably the construction of the medieval castle began. The current building, rectangular, dates mainly from the 13th century, with a regular apparatus, Romanesque openings, and defensive arrangements such as crows for breeches and hoards. Its basement is home to two vaulted cellars in a cradle, partially dug into the tufy rock.

The south facade was transformed in the 18th century, with modern openings overlooking a terrace, supported by arcades and a balustrade. Inside, the noble floor preserves a double Gothic fireplace, while the attic reveals bays in full walled hanger and traces of successive changes. Fortifications, probably built as early as the 12th century, include a south gate and a tower that could have been used as an entrance. A small chapel, joined to the tower in the 15th century, as well as modifications of the 17th century (terrace and south elevation) complete its architectural history.

The site has been protected since 1988, with an additional inventory for its facades and roofs. This monument reflects the political and military evolutions of the region, from feudality to the residential adaptations of modern times. Its rocky promontory, reshaped for defense, bears witness to medieval fortification techniques, while its subsequent transformations illustrate the adaptation of castles to less warrior uses.

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