Located in the heart of the Parc des Étangs de Mathan, the Bâtie d’Azieu, mentioned as early as 1297 and occupied until the 15th century, was a strategic link on the border between Dauphiné and the States of Savoy. A first excavation campaign, funded by the City of Genas and conducted by Archéodunum archaeologists from June 29 to July 24, 2026, explored its subsoil for the first time.
Over a excavated area of 200 square meters, archaeologists discovered about ten post holes indicating former wooden buildings, a prepared hearth, several pits, excavated structures including a possible well, and the lower part of the enclosure wall. These remains confirm that the fortress combined wooden and stone constructions, typical of medieval 'bâties', and allow for a better imagination of the daily life of its occupants over six centuries ago. The mound on which the Bâtie rests is essentially natural, slightly raised by human activity.
Among the movable discoveries are a crossbow bolt, testifying to the site's defensive purpose, a spur rowel evoking the presence of horsemen, and numerous pottery fragments that will help refine the dating and understand the daily life of its inhabitants.
During the summer, groups of children and teenagers from Genas had the opportunity to visit the site and meet the archaeologists, learning about excavation techniques and medieval life.
Although the fieldwork is now complete, the analysis of ceramics, metal objects, and animal bones continues. These studies aim to refine dating, understand the organization of spaces, and reconstruct the daily life of this medieval fortification, whose secrets are not yet fully revealed.
