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Origin and history

Milliole Pigeon is a historic monument located in Moissac, in the Tarn-et-Garonne department (Occitanie region). Built in the 17th century, it stands out for its octagonal brick structure, topped by an eight-ply roof surrounding a central lantern. This type of architecture reflects the rural construction techniques of the era, where pigeons served as both a symbol of social status and a food reserve for landowners or seigneurs.

The dovecote was included in the inventory of Historic Monuments by order of 13 May 1947, thus recognizing its heritage value. Although the adjacent house has been completely denatured, the tower itself retains its original characteristics, including its brick dome and skylight system. Pigeons of this period were often associated with agricultural fields, playing an economic role in providing meat, manure and feathers.

The location of the dovecote, at 1661 Chemin de Saint-Nicolas de la Grave in Moissac, is considered satisfactory (accuracy note: 8/10). This monument illustrates the importance of utility constructions in the rural landscape of southwestern France, where pigeon farming was a common and regulated activity, reserved for the privileged under the Ancien Régime.

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