Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Malbec Gate of Rocamadour, also known as the Salmon Gate, is located on the main axis of the city (current streets of the Coronerie and Roland-le-Preux). It is the only city gate to have kept its tower, although it does not have significant defensive devices. Its broken arch, narrow harps and arched passage in a broken cradle are characteristic of local medieval buildings. The tower, joined to a screw staircase, combines cut stones and bellstones, reflecting later additions.

The structure probably dates from the 13th century for its initial elements (door and main tower), while the southeast staircase turret, with its wood strip, seems to date from the modern times (after the 15th century). The construction techniques (cut stone, bellows, broken arch) bring it closer to the other doors of Rocamadour, such as the Hugon, Cabilière or Figuier doors. Classified as a Historic Monument in 1910, it now belongs to the municipality.

The building illustrates the evolution of urban fortifications: originally conceived as an open gate to the gorge (unclosed tower on the city side), it was modified to incorporate a staircase and a closing system. Its present state, although partially altered (disappeared crown), allows to observe architectural transitions between the Middle Ages and the modern era. The location on the cliff and its alignment with the northern wall of the religious city underline its role in the defensive and symbolic organization of Rocamadour.

Sources indicate poor location accuracy (note 5/10), with an approximate address at 5291 Rue Roland le Preux. The 1910 classification refers specifically to "the Malbec or Salmon Gate", confirming its heritage importance. No information is available on its current accessibility (visits, use) or possible tourist facilities.

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