Nyer : Former castle of the Roca d'Enyer

The territory of Nyer is mentioned in the year 871, while the castle appeared in the chronicles of the following century. It was used to protect the entrance from the Gorges de la Rivière de Mantet. In this region, the term "roca" refers to an ancient type of fortification which rested on the natural rock and was mainly defended by steep slopes. In the 14th century, the lordship of Nyer was acquired by the house of Banyuls. La Roca is abandoned in the 15th or 16th century, and the materials of its construction were used to build a nearby chapel, Notre-Dame de la Roca. The castle ceases to be a residence for the Lord, but its defensive characteristics remain intact, and it is undoubtedly kept by a small garrison during the difficult periods. The oldest parts, like the tower, date from the 10th century. The square tower, with stretch slots, is supported at its base by a thick slope of added stones, thus hiding the foundation. The upper levels, without staircase, have very short archès, one up floor, aligned on the facades. A surrounding wall, probably added to the 15th or 16th century, was built around this structure, with a walkway. Ruin walls connect this fortification to an imposing oblique wall and the remains of the old castle.