Timeline

Origin and history

The walls of Pertuis constitute a medieval defensive complex located in the department of Vaucluse, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Their construction probably dates back to the first half of the 13th century, with a first attestation written in 1242. The enclosure, initially composed of courtes pierced by arches and flanked by towers (at least five rectangular and three round), was reinforced by a ditch and a wall, a second protective wall. These adjustments reflect the military techniques of the time, adapted to local conflicts and the protection needs of the population.

In 1396-1397, the ramparts were enlarged between the castle and the church of Saint-Nicolas, marking a strategic extension of the city. The four-door courtine was then a key element of the defensive system. A southward expansion project, envisaged in 1609, was never carried out. Most of the structures were destroyed in the 19th century, leaving only a fragment of courtine with patted arches, a rectangular flanking tower (registered with the Historical Monuments in 1930), and remains of the round road on crows. The tower, open to the gorge, houses two vaulted rooms in a cradle and is crowned with a terrace on mâchicoulis.

These ramparts illustrate the evolution of urban fortifications in Provence, between the central middle ages (XIIIth century) and the modern period (XVIIth century). Their partial destruction in the 19th century is part of the context of the decommissioning of medieval enclosures, often perceived as obsolete with the advent of modern artillery. Today, the remaining vestiges, owned by the municipality, bear witness to the military and urban history of Pertuis, although their exact location is approximate (map precision considered satisfactory a priori).

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