Berzème

Berzème is a commune of 155 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in the department of Ardèche. The inhabitants are called Berzemais and Berzemaises.

Geography

Berzème is located on the plateau of lava and basalt plateaus of Coiron. The rivers Payre and lavezon flow through the municipality. Neighboring municipalities are Darbres and Saint -Pons. The next largest city is Aubenas 14 kilometers to the southwest.

History

Fragments of Gallo-Roman roof tiles and ceramics can be already close to a settlement in ancient times.

The local church was first mentioned in 1170, when it came to a settlement the foot of the Château d' Allier. Then the place was from the 17th century, under the suzerainty of the Fayon family, but was sold in the 18th century to Jean Plane Roque, who lived earlier than tax collectors in the village. The old castle was destroyed in the wake of many religious wars in the 15th century it was replaced by a new building.

Demographics

Attractions

The Castle of Berzème from the 15th and 16th centuries, with its basalt facade and the round towers typical of the rural style to this era. It has two floors and is flanked by two towers on the sides. Also, most of the houses in the village are made of this stone and date from the late 15th century. The neo-Romanesque church is known for its old wooden bell from the 18th century. In addition, the municipality has a chapel from the 19th century.

For three nights in July especially many visitors come to the place where the dance ball of Berzème on the Place de la Mairie is celebrated.