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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Gate of Fortifications, known as the Roman Gate, located in Lalinde, Dordogne, is the only remaining vestige of the old fortifications of the city. Dating from the 12th century, it is distinguished by its defensive architecture, with a western face with two arches, traces of harrows and an ancient drawbridge, while its eastern face has only murderers. This monument, now embedded in modern buildings, bears witness to the strategic importance of the city at that time.

The peculiarity of this door lies in the use of Roman bricks for its construction, coming from the ancient enclosure of the region. These materials, recycled several centuries after their manufacture, illustrate common re-use practices in the Middle Ages. The door was classified as Historic Monument by order of 5 October 1946, thus recognizing its heritage value. Today it belongs to the municipality of Lalinde and remains accessible, although its integration into the modern urban fabric limits its visibility.

From an architectural point of view, the Roman Gate combines typical 12th century defensive elements, such as murderers and closing systems (herse, drawbridge), with a brick structure inherited from antiquity. Its state of conservation, considered satisfactory (notation 8/10 for accuracy of location), allows to study medieval fortification techniques in south-western France. Available sources, including the Merimée and Monumentum base, confirm its historic role as a protected access point to the fortified city.

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