Details
Founded: 13th centuryCategory: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)
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Château de Vaison-la-Romaine was originally a wooden tower erected in 1185 to assert the power of Raymond VI, Count of Toulouse. It was transformed in the 13th century into a fortified building comprising three main buildings and a square keep surrounding an inner courtyard. In 1274, it became a pontifical possession until 1791.
Solidly built on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the town, it can be seen from all sides as an unmissable landmark. From its forecourt, a magnificent panorama awaits you. On the heights around the castle, you can enjoy the sumptuous views, but the castle itself is not open to visitors.
References:The Church of St Donatus name refers to Donatus of Zadar, who began construction on this church in the 9th century and ended it on the northeastern part of the Roman forum. It is the largest Pre-Romanesque building in Croatia.
The beginning of the building of the church was placed to the second half of the 8th century, and it is supposed to have been completed in the 9th century. The Zadar bishop and diplomat Donat (8th and 9th centuries) is credited with the building of the church. He led the representations of the Dalmatian cities to Constantinople and Charles the Great, which is why this church bears slight resemblance to Charlemagne's court chapels, especially the one in Aachen, and also to the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. It belongs to the Pre-Romanesque architectural period.
The circular church, formerly domed, is 27 m high and is characterised by simplicity and technical primitivism.