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Origin and history

The church of Castelas, located in Rochefort-du-Gard in the Gard, is an emblematic monument dating back to the twelfth century. It was originally dedicated to Saint Bardulphe (or Bardoux), an Italian abbot, and integrated into the feudal enclosure of the village. Owned by the abbey Saint-André de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, it was one of his possessions since 1195. Its Romanesque apse, the only medieval vestige spared by the Wars of Religion, has a distinctive 12th century toothed decoration, while 17th century frescoes still adorn the interior.

In the 17th century, the church was thoroughly remodeled after centuries of neglect and conflict. In 1602, the local consuls protested against the pittor of Saint Andrew for his refusal to restore the building, where the offices were then held in a cellar. The works, including the construction of the bell tower in 1650, probably used the stones of the walls dismantled after the Wars of Religion, on the order of Richelieu (1623). The 17th century changes, such as the frescoes of 1608 and the bell of 1641, mark this transition between religious function and communal heritage.

Unacralized, the church of Castelas is now protected under the Historical Monuments (inscription in 2013). It serves as a cultural place, welcoming exhibitions and events. Its Romanesque apse, bell tower and murals testify to its medieval and modern past, while its dominant position offers views of Rochefort-du-Gard and its vineyards. The site embodies both local religious history and architectural vicissitudes related to conflict and reconstruction.

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