Medieval quarter of Cruas

Overlooking the village of Cruas, the ruins of the “Monks’ Castle” stand proudly above the Rhône Valley, telling a thousand years of monastic history. Although the interior is not open to the public, the site can be admired from a scenic hillside path — a perfect addition to a visit to the nearby Sainte-Marie Abbey.

This hilltop refuge once sheltered Benedictine monks whenever flooding from the Crûle stream made the abbey unusable. Today, the visible remains offer a glimpse into the religious and defensive life of the Middle Ages. The village also features beautiful Gothic houses, perfect to explore on foot.

The medieval site of Cruas fits naturally into a day of discovery that can include the Rochemaure Castle, the ViaRhôna cycling route, and a guided tour of the abbey.

A Refuge Built to Withstand Floods and Conflict

Beauty preserved Medieval Cruas bares its soul to the more inquiring visitor

As early as the 11th century, the monks of the abbey chose to move higher up the hillside to escape frequent flooding. The Crûle, a small stream running through the village, often turned the plain below into a marsh. Their solution: a stone chapel built on the hill, safely above the water.

Over the centuries, the site evolved to meet new needs. The walls were raised, fortifications added, then expanded. By the 14th century, the chapel had become a true monastic fortress, with direct access to an abbatial residence and buildings reserved for the religious community.

A Castle… but Not Like the Others

Now known as the “Monks’ Castle,” the building was never a noble residence. It served primarily as a temporary retreat — a place for daily life, prayer, and protection. The site included a fortified chapel (with a single nave, barrel vault, and east-facing choir), the abbot’s chamber, dormitories, and several communal rooms. A lower chapel in an adjoining wing completed the layout.

The entire site has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1912.

Can You Visit the Site?

👉 Yes, the exterior of the medieval site can be explored freely on foot.
The walk up to the castle offers beautiful views over the Rhône Valley and reveals the remains of the fortified chapel, defensive walls, square tower, and the site’s overall layout. It’s an ideal stroll starting from the abbey square.

The medieval village of Cruas is also open to visitors, with its cobbled streets, vaulted passageways, and Gothic houses — a perfect setting to soak up the Middle Ages.

⚠️ Please note: the castle interior is not currently open to the public, but the rest of the site is freely accessible and well worth a visit.