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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The manor house of Pech Godou, also known as Pech Gaudou or Pechgaudou, is a nobile repayrium located in the commune of Belvès, Dordogne. His name could derive from "Pech Godame" ("English Hill"), evoking an English occupation during the Hundred Years War. As early as the 12th century, a square dungeon guarded the Nauze valley. In the 14th century, a house corps was added to the west, supplemented by a tower of stairs with mâchicoulis and a scauguette. These adjustments reflect its defensive role during medieval conflicts, particularly with regard to the English.

In the 16th century, the mansion belonged to the Commarque family, engaged in the wars of Religion alongside Protestants. In 1577, Annet de Commarque, Sieur des lieux, received Henri de Navarre (future Henri IV) there, before carrying out a surprise attack on the Catholic abbey of Saint-Avit-Sénieur on his orders. This episode illustrates the confessional tensions of the time: after entering the fort under the cover of friendship, Commarque had the canons massacred and looted the church. He was prosecuted for these acts and was eventually amnestied by the edict of pacification. The manor house, remodelled in the 16th and 19th centuries (addition of bays, inner courtyard, Mansart roof), was classified as a Historic Monument in 1981.

Architecturally, the site combines medieval elements (donjon, scalable) and subsequent transformations. In the 19th century, a wing of communes and a closed courtyard were added, while additional buildings, now ruined, were completed together. The property thus embodies almost eight centuries of perigordin history, marked by feudal conflicts, the Hundred Years War and the Wars of Religion. Its designation as historic monuments underscores its heritage value, linked to both its architecture and its role in local struggles.

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