Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Porte Neuve de Monteux, formerly known as Porte Notre-Dame, was an integral part of the city's walls in the 14th century. With the Avignon Gate, it was one of the main accesses to the fortified city. Its architecture has a special feature: it was "doubled" on the interior side in the 17th century, offering two distinct styles – an interior side of the 15th century and an exterior façade of Renaissance style. This double face illustrates Monteux' architectural and defensive evolutions throughout the centuries.

The vault of the door was rebuilt in 1730, then renovated in 2019 to preserve its integrity. The ramparts, destroyed in 1840, left only three remaining elements: the Avignon Gate, the butcher's poterne and the Porte Neuve. In 1854, the latter escaped destruction by the intervention of the prefect, under pressure from the inhabitants. His classification as a historical monument in 1875 was a celebration of his heritage importance.

With a thickness of 1.50 metres and a height of about 10 metres, the surrounding wall was probably protected by a drawbridge spanning a ditch, as evidenced by traces of still visible chains. The gate porch also served as a place for justice to yield, highlighting its central role in Monteux's community and administrative life. Today, it remains one of the few testimonies of medieval fortifications in the city.

External links