Vachéry Tower – a symbol of resilience and clemency

History and description

Dating back to the 12th century, Vachéry Tower was part of a network of towers that allowed visual communication between them, serving as a strategic defensive point. It is a medieval monoblock tower with a square plan, originally accessible through an elevated entrance, where the jamb and lintel can still be seen today. Owned by the Vachéry family for several centuries, the tower later took on a residential function. After being set on fire by the Nazis and possibly used as a source of building materials, it underwent partial restoration works that remain incomplete to this day.

Curiosities

The building is tied to a local legend according to which the breach in its structure—of uncertain date—was caused by a nobleman of the House of Savoy. Offended by the poor hospitality he received, he intended to demolish the tower but was persuaded by the vassal’s wife, who begged him to spare it on the condition that the opening would never be repaired. This breach thus became a symbol of his generosity.

Access

As it is still undergoing restoration, the tower can only be visited from the outside.

How to reach it

Located in the municipality of Etroubles, the building is easily reachable on foot from the town center.

An ideal place to connect with the authentic history of the town, Vachéry Tower is an unmissable stop where history, legend, and landscape intertwine.

Photo credits: ACorana - Licensed by CC 4.0