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Origin and history

Bozel Tower, dated from the 12th century, is a medieval tower associated with a strong house, located in the municipality of Bozel, Savoie. It is locally called "Tour des Sarrasins" or "Tour Sarrazine", although it had no historical connection with the Moorish incursions of the 10th century. Its name comes from a local tradition attributing the Saracens to the construction of many old buildings, although this tower was built long after they left.

The tower, rectangular (9.70 × 8.20 metres), has thick walls of 2.15 metres at its base and rises on four levels. Its architectural features, such as the steep arches of the bays, confirm its 12th century dating. It was originally designed to defend a strong house, with archers and dustfalls on the lower floors. The last level, illuminated by eight openings, housed a small heated room, probably a work room.

Originally, the tower would have belonged to the Red family, attested since 1140 and close to the archbishops of Tarentaise and the Counts of Savoie. In the 13th century, it passed into the hands of the family of the Verger (or Vergier), who owned a strong house in Bozel. In 1353, Jean du Vergier sold his rights on the mountain pastures to the archbishop of Taraise, followed in 1439 by Jacques du Verger, who gave jurisdiction over some inhabitants. The tower, damaged by a flood in 1630, was repaired in 1715.

The tower is located on the right bank of the torrent of Bonrieu, in the village of Bozel. It was initially under the temporal authority of the archbishop of Tarentaise, as evidenced by papal (1176) and imperial (1186) bubbles. Several noble families succeeded each other as owners, including the Sechal (or Secalcy), lords of the Wood, who acquired property through the archbishops in the 15th century.

Today, the tower houses a communal museum space, the Sarrazine Tower, museum. Fully rehabilitated, it offers a permanent exhibition on the history of the Bozel Valley, from the neolithic to today, as well as temporary exhibitions. Its architecture and history make it a remarkable testimony to the medieval Savoyard heritage.

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