Where is the castrum Saint-Jean located?

It stands in the commune of Rougiers, in the Var department, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Saint-Maximin basin.

Is the castrum Saint-Jean still inhabited?

No, the site has been abandoned since the early 15th century, when its population first moved to Pays Haut and later to the present-day village of Quatre Cantons.

What was found during the excavations at castrum Saint-Jean?

Excavations carried out between 1961 and 1969 uncovered nearly 94,000 pottery fragments, around 2,600 objects in metal, bone, ivory, antler, stone or glass, and 114 coins.

Why is castrum Saint-Jean significant archaeologically?

It was the first French excavation of a late medieval rural settlement and its methods had a lasting influence on medieval historians.

Can the chapel be seen from the site?

Yes, the Saint Jean de Solferino chapel, built in 1860, stands right next to the ruins of the seigneurial residence.

Castrum Saint-Jean

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château d'Arnajon (Arnajon Castle)Accommodation on site28 km

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Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Saint-Maximin basin in the Var region, the ruins of the castrum Saint-Jean sit at roughly 600 metres above sea level, close to the Piégu hillfort. This fortified medieval village, inhabited from the late 12th century until the early 15th century before its population moved down into the valley, was the subject of a major archaeological excavation between 1961 and 1969. Visitors can see the remains of a feudal castle, a village settlement divided into distinct zones, and a 19th century chapel, while an orientation table offers views stretching as far as Mont Sainte-Victoire.

Written from Castrum Saint-Jean

What to know

Reaching the site involves an uphill walk to the rocky plateau, so some physical effort and suitable footwear are needed.
The site is outdoors and can be explored freely among the ruins and along the village's former enclosure wall.
The Saint Jean de Solferino chapel, built in 1860, stands close to the remains of the seigneurial residence.
An orientation table is set up on site, helping visitors identify viewpoints, including toward Mont Sainte-Victoire.
The ruins have been listed as a historic monument since 1967.

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Frequently asked

Where is the castrum Saint-Jean located?: It stands in the commune of Rougiers, in the Var department, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Saint-Maximin basin.
Is the castrum Saint-Jean still inhabited?: No, the site has been abandoned since the early 15th century, when its population first moved to Pays Haut and later to the present-day village of Quatre Cantons.
What was found during the excavations at castrum Saint-Jean?: Excavations carried out between 1961 and 1969 uncovered nearly 94,000 pottery fragments, around 2,600 objects in metal, bone, ivory, antler, stone or glass, and 114 coins.
Why is castrum Saint-Jean significant archaeologically?: It was the first French excavation of a late medieval rural settlement and its methods had a lasting influence on medieval historians.
Can the chapel be seen from the site?: Yes, the Saint Jean de Solferino chapel, built in 1860, stands right next to the ruins of the seigneurial residence.

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Sources

Identity, location and official references from Wikidata and the Mérimée register.

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