Saumane de Vaucluse

At the end of prehistory, humans already used the shelters under the rocks in the valley of Chinchon, and some remnants nearby indicate Roman presence. In the Middle Ages, the area came into the hands of the popes of Avignon. Later, the family de Sade took over and would retain it for more than 400 years.

Beaudet de Sade benefited in 1451 from the submission of the village by Pope Nicholas V, expanding the old 12th-century castrum and giving it a new, strong appearance. The castle was later often restored, modified, or converted but never lost its imposing character. The moats are carved into the rock, and the access road is guarded by overhanging machicolations. The courtyard, the large vaulted halls, the grand staircase, the columns, the fireplaces, and the cellars are all equally impressive. For the castle of Saumane, now owned by the Association of Municipalities, consideration is being given to how it can be exploited as a tourist and cultural attraction. In doing so, history is not forgotten: they cherish the memory of the 'divine Marquis' (de Sade), the great 18th-century writer, whose name lives on in sadism.

Wim Willems