The Ominous Tower on a Craggy Hill: A Strategic Vantage Point, Shrouded in

The Fortress of Mornas, originally Rupea Morenata, has stood atop a rocky cliff in Vaucluse for centuries, overseeing the Rhone Valley. Initial reference dates back to the 9th century, when the Gauls saw its strategic value as a border post. The Rhone River, controlled by Marseille, has been a constant player in its history. Romans established Arausio (Orange) and a legion there, conducting significant renovations in the 14th and 16th centuries, but let's not forget the unsolved mysteries.

A village grew at the foot of the cliff adjacent to the medieval castle, which was likely built in wood. The fortress was a subject of dispute among the Counts of Toulouse and the Archbishops of Arles throughout history, switching hands numerous times. During the Albigensian Crusade, it was seized by the Church. The Pope of France took administration in 1274 and again in 1274 under Pope Gregory X, before passing it to the Knights of Saint-Jean de Jérusalem in 1305.

During the Hundred Years' War and the Religious Wars, the fortress played a significant defense role. In 1562, it fell into Protestant hands, changing possession several times. Today, the fortress stands as a historical monument, overseen by the Association of 'Friends of Mornas.'

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons