Small town of Ardèche, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Rochemaure takes place on the hillside, about thirty kilometers from Privas. Atypical, it seduces by its incredible panorama on the region, as well as by its black and white stones, basalt and limestone, which give it its particular charm.
Populated since the Gallo-Roman era, as evidenced by the construction of the Roman road of Antoninus Pius in 145, the Ardèche city developed in the first half of the twelfth century with the construction of its keep on a volcanic chimney. Germanic property, it found the fold of France at the beginning of the fourteenth century, and experienced a significant expansion with the arrival of the railway in the nineteenth century.
Rochemaure continues to seduce its visitors thanks to the beauty of its ancient architecture, but also by its historical heritage to discover in the city.
Listed as a Historical Monument, the Notre-Dame-des-Anges Chapel dates from the first half of the 13th century. Gothic Provencal style, it can be visited during Heritage Days, or during summer exhibitions. Used until the mid-nineteenth century, it was largely restored in the 1960s.
Built on a volcanic chimney, a dyke, the castle of Rochemaure was built at the beginning of the 12th century. It reveals a rectangular dungeon, as well as several buildings in basalt and limestone. It is now classified as an historic monument. Visits are offered by the Tourist Office in July and August. Do not forget to admire Joviac Castle, a late 16th century fortified townhouse whose hydraulic system has been classified.
While strolling in the commune of Rochemaure, you will be able to discover the ramparts of the fourteenth century, the Guast tower of the twelfth century or the old suspension bridge on the Rhone built in the middle of the nineteenth century by the collaborators of the inventor of the bridges in wire, Marc Seguin.
To appreciate the landscapes, go to the volcanic site at the foothills of the Coiron volcanoes. It is possible to admire the peak of Chenavari, the volcanic chimneys, as well as many basaltic organs.
Listed, the site of the old village was built around the Roman road of Antoninus the Old. You can see a military terminal installed around 145.
Several marked hiking trails allow you to appreciate all the heritage of this exceptional town.
A summer market is held on Tuesday late afternoon between June and September. A market also takes place all year round on Tuesday morning.
Concerts are offered in June for the Festival of Music.
A sound and light show takes place at the castle between July and August.