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Origin and history

Tampouy's fort house is a 14th century property located in the Frêche, in the Landes, New Aquitaine. It was founded in 1343 by Guilhem Arnaud de Labarthe, vassal of the Viscounts of Marsan, after permission of Alienor de Comminges, Viscountess of Marsan and mother of Gaston Fébus. This monument illustrates the increase in vassals between 1279 and 1344, where the Suzerans rewarded their loyal men with land concessions in exchange for military services and loyalty.

The fort house was built on a promontory overlooking the right bank of the Midou, without requiring major development of the site. Its primary function was to monitor the valley and control river transport, while serving as a refuge. The original building, probably a simple square or rectangular room, was destroyed and rebuilt before moving to a more comfortable residence. Work in the 15th and 16th centuries added ground bays, a stair tower, windows and chimneys.

In the 17th century, a wing of commons in return for square was added south side, and the whole was partially derailed between the late 19th and early 20th century. An 18th century sheepfold, built in 1740 according to an inscription, completes the estate. The fortified house and its sheepfold were listed as historical monuments in 2009. The site, accessible by a hiking path, is now integrated into the departmental domain of Ognoas.

A notable event took place on 8 July 1530, when members of Francis I's suite stayed there on the occasion of his marriage with Eléonore of Austria, celebrated at the convent of the Clarisses of the Frêche. This royal stay underlines the strategic and symbolic importance of the strong house at that time.

Architecturally, Tampouy's fort house reflects the characteristics of the "chambers halls" gascons, with a body of rectangular brick houses and limestone bellows. The thick walls, the 14th century masonries and subsequent transformations (windows, chimneys) testify to its evolution towards a more pleasant seigneurial home. A flange could overcome the entrance door, reinforcing its defensive aspect.

The estate, now owned by the Landes Department, was completely renovated in 1995. It remains a remarkable testimony of the feudal and rural history of Gascogne, combining architectural and landscape heritage.

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