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Origin and history

The Baudry Gate is one of the few remains of the fortifications of Montlhéry, built at two distinct periods: at the beginning of the 11th century (circa 1015) to connect the castle to the village, then at the end of the 16th century under the impulse of the inhabitants. In 1540, Francis I authorized by letters patent the construction of walls, towers and ditches to protect the city, following the destruction suffered during the religious wars. The Baudry gate, located on the Paris-Orléans royal road, was rebuilt under Henry III in 1589, and restored several times, notably in 1798 (year VII) and 1985.

The fortifications of Montlhéry, visible on engravings of the 17th and 18th centuries, initially included four main doors, of which only the Baudry gate remains today. The materials used for the enclosure walls are partly from the dismantling of the castle after 1591. The ditches were filled and transformed into gardens between 1767 and 1771, while other doors, such as the one in Paris, were destroyed to facilitate the passage of vehicles. The Baudry Gate, listed as a historic monument in 1926, remains an architectural testimony of medieval and renaissant defensive strategies.

The Baudry Gate illustrates the evolution of fortification techniques between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. His role was both military, controlling access to the city, and symbolic, marking the entrance to the royal road. Successive restorations reflect heritage preservation concerns, especially after the damage caused by the 16th century religious conflicts. Today, it is a major historical landmark in the urban landscape of Montlhéry, recalling the strategic importance of the city throughout the centuries.

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