Roquemartine

Roquemartine is located within the commune of Eyguières in France. The site was established by medieval European civilization and first entered historical records in the late 11th century. Its earliest known mention appears around 1096, when the local lords sold a portion of their tithes to finance their participation in the First Crusade, a military expedition sanctioned by the Catholic Church.

During the 12th and 13th centuries, Roquemartine was the site of a fortified castle belonging to the Albe family. Positioned strategically, the stronghold controlled an important route connecting the Durance valley with the southern Alpilles mountains. This location included a toll station, highlighting its role in regional politics and commerce. The site witnessed conflict in 1222, when Raimond Bérenger V’s forces destroyed the castrum during his campaign to reclaim control over Provence. Following this devastation, stewardship of the site passed to Albe de Tarascon, who likely undertook rebuilding efforts in the mid-13th century. Some scholars suggest that parts of the castle may date from even later periods, including the 14th or 15th century.

In the turbulent years following Queen Jeanne I’s death between 1382 and 1387, Roquemartine took a firm stand by supporting Charles de Duras. The castle remained loyal despite the fall of nearby Aix-en-Provence. It experienced sieges by various parties during this era, including a capture by the Tuchins in 1384 and subsequent seizure and burning by Raimond Roger de Beaufort in 1389. A decade later, in 1399, Marshal Boucicaut freed the stronghold by ransoming those held captive within its walls.

The 15th century brought restoration and upgrades to the castle complex. Additions included a chapel, installation of a mullioned window (a window divided by vertical stone bars), a fireplace in the western living quarters, and a cannon embrasure in the southern section. Despite these improvements, the castle’s military role declined over the following centuries. By the early 1600s, it was abandoned in favor of a new residence constructed on the plain below. In 1672, the estate was elevated to a marquisate and remained in the hands of the original descendants.

In the 20th century, the historical importance of Roquemartine was formally recognized. The ruins, along with the adjacent church, were designated as a Monument historique in 1926. Recently, in 2022, the site received funding for restoration through the Fondation du patrimoine, supported by the Loto du patrimoine. This project aims to stabilize the castle ruins and facilitate public engagement with the location’s history.