Presumed construction period XIVe siècle (?) (≈ 1450)
Approximate date of the monument.
1949
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 1949 (≈ 1949)
Inscription of the chimney mite.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Fireplace mite: inscription by order of 6 December 1949
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character mentioned
Sources do not cite any historical actors.
Origin and history
The House known as the Castle, located in Vergèze in the Gard department, is a monument probably built in the 14th century. Although its history remains partially unknown, it is now recognized for its distinctive architecture, including its fireplace mite, which has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1949. This building is currently private property, which limits its access to the public.
The chimney mite, a protected element of the monument, features a square base and an octagonal barrel topped by a lantern not pierced with eight openings. Four smoke ducts, coming from separate chimneys, meet in this structure, crowned by an octagonal pyramid and a flagship. This type of architecture reflects the construction techniques and domestic needs of the late medieval era, where chimneys played a central role in heating and daily life.
Located in Occitanie, in an area marked by a rich medieval history, this monument is part of the Gard's local heritage. Vergèze, like other municipalities in the region, experienced a period of architectural development in the Middle Ages, where fortified houses or defensive elements were common. The fireplace mitre, in particular, illustrates the ingenuity of the artisans of the period to combine functionality and aesthetics, while meeting the climatic and social needs of the population.
