Barben Castle

Between Salon-de-Provence and Aix-en-Provence, the Château de la Barben is one of the most beautiful castles in Provence.
Dominating a magnificent setting overlooking the verdant oasis formed by the Maurel and Touloubre valleys, the Château de la Barben is, according to some authors, the ancient Pisavis, near which the Via Aurelia passed.

The "castrum de Barbentum" is first mentioned in 1064 in a cartulary of the Abbey of Saint Victor of Marseille, which then owned the land.

A fortified castle designed for defense, La Barben was built on enormous rocks, making it impregnable. Its towers, turrets, and hanging terraces blend seamlessly with nature to create a unified whole that gives this site its beauty and mystique. From the moment you pass through the first postern gate, you discover all the architectural elements of medieval fortresses: watchtowers with pulleys from the old drawbridge, crenellations and machicolations, arrow slits, the coat of arms and motto of the Lords of the manor… A monumental staircase leads to the main terrace, where a splendid view stretches beyond Salon-de-Provence and the Étang de Berre. From this terrace, you can access the Gothic chapel. To the south, nestled between medieval towers, emerges a charming little pleasure castle with Classical-era wrought-iron windows and balconies, flanked by a superb double-helix staircase in the style of Henri IV. The medieval fortress, perched on its rocky outcrop, then fully benefited from the Age of Enlightenment and became a castle where austerity and classicism combine to give this building a unique charm and picturesque quality.

Château de la Barben, a jewel of Provençal heritage, welcomes you to its enchanting setting and opens its sumptuous rooms and suites. Journey through time amidst period furnishings. Breakfast and evening meals are served in the grand dining room, the medieval kitchen, or on the terrace.