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Origin and history

The Espeluche Justice Bank is a historical monument located in the municipality of Espeluche, in the department of Drôme (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes). Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, it is a seigneurial bench of justice, symbol of the local judicial authority in medieval and modern times. This type of monument was generally installed in public places to mark the holding of hearings and judgements on behalf of the Lord or community.

Ranked by ministerial decree on 6 October 1981, this bank is now protected under the Historical Monuments. Its precise location, Place de la Fontaine, corresponds to a central area of the village, reflecting its public and institutional role. Benches of justice were key elements of the social and judicial organization of villages, where local conflicts, land disputes or minor cases were dealt with under the authority of the Lord or his representatives.

Available data indicate that the bank is still present in the municipality, although its current condition and access conditions are not detailed in the sources. Its ranking in 1981 underlines its heritage importance, both for its architecture and for its historical value, illustrating the judicial practices of Ancien Régime. No additional information is provided on any restorations or on its contemporary use.

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