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Origin and history

The Petrou Cluzeau is an underground cavity dug by Man in the Middle Ages, located in Carves, Dordogne. This type of shelter, typical of conflict regions, was used to protect local populations and their property. Discovered in 1871 by the professor of Marseille geology M. Vasseur, it is said to date mainly from the twelfth century, although traces of occupation date back to the tenth century. Its layout under a house suggests a use related to the religious and military tensions of the time, especially during the Albigois Crusade (1209-1229) and the Franco-English wars.

The cluzeau presents a complex plan, perhaps symbolizing the spiritual stages of hermits, and would have been realized by followers of Henry of Lausanne, a heretical preacher. It was used by cathars fleeing the persecutions of Simon de Montfort, then as a refuge during the Hundred Years War (1242-1453), protecting the peasants from the plunders of the roadmen and royal troops. The above-mentioned house, burned around 1230 and 1410, bears witness to the recurring violence of the period. The site also served as a cache during World War II, after sheltering Napoleonic deserters.

Architecturally, the cluzeau extends over three levels (23 m x 17 m) and includes rooms ranging from 5 to 6 m2, defensive systems (pig, chicanes, emergency exits) and domestic facilities (kitchen, dining room, bedroom). Excavations revealed objects dating from the 12th to 15th centuries, such as pottery and prehistoric flint tools nearby. The roof of the house above evolved from thatched (XIII century) to the lauze (XIV-15 century). The site, studied by François Poujardieu, has been listed as historical monuments since 1988.

Neighboring tillage has exposed prehistoric artifacts (bifaces, scrapers), highlighting an ancient occupation of the site. The cluzeau illustrates the adaptation of medieval populations to crises, combining defensive, religious and domestic functions. Its history reflects the political and religious upheavals of the Dordogne, between heresy, feudal wars and Franco-English conflicts. Today, there remains a rare testimony of medieval underground architecture and daily life during times of trouble.

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