The old village of La Laupie had been gradually abandoned at the beginning of the 20th century and, perched on a strategic mound in the middle of the plain, the final blow came during the battle of Montélimar at the end of August 1944, when it was hit by 650 shells fired by the German and American armies. Not far away, the village of Bonlieu had become a buffer zone between the opposing sides.
From these ruins, new owners brought the houses back to life, one by one, from around 1962. Stones scattered on the ground – architectural details such as lintels, mullions, round windows – were gradually restored to their place in the facades. Great attention was paid to authenticity during the restoration, which has given the village a particularly homogeneous character.
The chateau, successor to a building constructed around the year 1000 and often modified as the centuries passed, is again crowned by a hanging garden.
To enjoy this collection of buildings, it's best to wander through the narrow streets on foot. There is a car park near the cemetery.
On the way back, stop to admire the chapel Saint Michel which was built on a promontory. Although it has been modified several times, the chapel was constructed at the same time as the old village and inside are details from the 12th century.
