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Origin and history

Lagarde Pigeon is a circular building isolated in a field, characteristic of the caussenard pigeons of Aveyron. Built probably in the 17th or 18th century, it is distinguished by its bolts arranged from the base to the vault, with protruding slabs serving as flight beach. It is once lost and has been restored to lauze, the traditional material of the region. Access is via a chamfered door to the ground, while an old high entrance, now hidden, bears witness to its historical use.

Located west of Compeyre, on the heights of the Lumansonesque Valley (left bank), this dovecote illustrates the rural architecture associated with pigeon rearing, a privilege often associated with the seigneurs or wealthy peasant communities. Its interior layout, with perfectly aligned stone bolts, reflects a remarkable technical mastery. Pigeons of this type served as both a food reserve (meat, manure) and a symbol of social status in the Rouergue countryside.

Ranked under the title of historical monuments by order of 27 May 2011, the pigeon-house of Lagarde is a preserved example of the vernacular heritage of Aveyron. Its inscription emphasizes its architectural and ethnological interest, while protecting a rare element of the caussenard landscape. The available sources (Wikipedia, Monumentum, Mérimée base) confirm its precise location near the place called Le Rascalat, in the commune of Compeyre, in the department of Aveyron (Occitanie region).

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