CHÂTEAU DE HAUTERIVES

The ruins of Hautes-Rives Castle, formerly known as Alta Ripa, overlook the hamlet and the Tarn valley from their rocky outcrop. First mentioned in the 11th century, this medieval fortress belonged to the Viscounts of Arpajon, who were related to the Counts of Rodez. It guarded a strategic pass between the Causse Méjean and the valley and marked the boundary of the powerful House of Anduze’s holdings. Although already partially destroyed in the 18th century, the castle retains two imposing sections of wall from its former keep, where arrow slits are still visible. Halfway up the slope, the Castelas, a restored former castle village, bears witness to how life was organised around the fortress. The castle is privately owned and can only be viewed from the outside.