A little history of Poet-Laval medieval city

This small medieval city located in Drôme departement was founded near the castle, which was the commanderie (kind of house) of Malta order knights.

A 1209 document shows the first knights paid homage to the counts of Valentinois for their fief.

Founded in the 12th century, mentioned for the first time in 1215, the keep was raised at that time. They also raised the St-Jean chapel and the surrounding wall.

But the Hundred Years War came and damaged the commanderie. So it had to be restored, in the 15th century.

During wars of Religion, the knights, who were Catholics, fought against inhabitants who were Protestants. So the castle was many time besieged. Then the knights decided to leave the village in order to settle in Montélimar...