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Origin and history

The Porte du Figuier de Rocamadour is a fortified gate mentioned as early as 1303 in a charter, alongside the Hugon gate, whose architectural characteristics it shares. Its construction is attributed to the 13th century, although sources also indicate a period of construction in the 15th century. It is distinguished by a broken arch covering the arched passage in a low broken cradle, typical of medieval defensive architecture. A notable feature is the presence, in its interior elevation, of a high lintel door on cushions, giving access to a straight staircase integrated in the thickness of the wall, which once allowed to reach the top of the courtine.

Located at the upper end of the village of Rocamadour, the Porte du Figuier is adjacent to the ramparts, playing a key role in the local defensive system. Its classification as Historic Monument by decree of 20 June 1910 underlines its heritage importance. The door owes its name to a fig tree probably present nearby, although this origin remains anecdotal. Architectural arrangements, such as the broken arch and the integrated staircase, reflect the military construction techniques of the time, designed to withstand the assaults while facilitating the movement of defenders.

Historical sources, notably the 1303 charter cited by J. Rocacher (1979), confirm the old existence of this door, although the details of its exact construction and its possible modifications remain partial. The gate is now owned by the municipality of Rocamadour and is one of the protected elements of the local heritage. Its state of conservation and location, noted as "passable" (5/10) in the databases, make it a tangible testimony to the medieval history of the region, attracting visitors interested in military architecture and defensive planning.

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