Septème

Isère Department in Southeastern France, France

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Septème is a village in the Isère department in southeastern France, historically significant for its location at the seventh milepost on the ancient Roman road between Vienne and Milan. A Roman military camp once stood on the hill overlooking the valley. The village grew around a castle first recorded in the 11th century, which was surrounded by a strong defensive wall about a kilometer long with three gates in the 12th century.

The castle was later expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries after the region became part of Dauphiné. The House of Savoy also fortified the site in the 13th century, creating an impressive stronghold with extensive ramparts. Today, the castle ruins and well-preserved rooms offer insight into medieval life, surrounded by a park where peacocks roam freely.

The village itself has expanded beyond the original fortified area and continues to evoke its rich history dating back over 800 years with a heritage of noble families who once ruled there.