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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

Labastide-Floyras Fort House, located at Labastidette-Haute on the town of Pontcirq (Lot, Occitanie), has been a historic monument since 18 February 1993. This medieval den, mentioned in 1281, was originally linked to the lineage of the Floyras, vassals of the bishop of Cahors and the Baron of Luzech. Divided into two parts from the 13th century, it was rebuilt between the 14th and 15th centuries, with a house and a quadrangular tower separated by a venal.

The current building consists of a house and a unaxed tower, connected by a suspended staircase turret. The house, partly medieval, preserves 14th century elements such as a vaulted room in a cradle and windows with trilobed network. The tower, largely rebuilt in the 16th century, has a Renaissance window and a monumental fireplace. The remains suggest a different primitive organization, with traces of openings and thick walls (1.40 to 1.50 m).

The den was infused in 1446 to the Molières brothers, who came from Auvergne, after being deserted by Hugues de Floyras. In the 17th century, it was described as having slots, mâchicoulis and a drawbridge. The Molières later built a new home, Labastidette-Basse, near. The changes of the 19th and 16th centuries partially erased the traces of the medieval state, but elements such as chimneys and pierces attest to its architectural evolution.

The historical sources, including the works of Jean Lartigaut, underline the role of this den in the local seigneury. Associated with noble families (Floyras, Molières), it illustrates the feudal dynamics of Quercy between the 13th and 16th centuries, marked by reconstructions and changes in vassality. Architectural remains and archives reveal a continuous occupation, adapted to the defensive and residential needs of the time.

The protection of facades, roofs and lower rooms (1993) demonstrates its heritage importance. Today, the site remains a typical example of strong Quercy houses, combining military and residential functions. Its history reflects the social and architectural transformations of southwestern France in the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

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