Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The ramparts of Malzieu-Ville constitute a fortification of agglomeration established on a trapezoidal route, whose remains date mainly from the 15th century. Among the elements preserved are an eastern gate (so-called "upper door"), two corner towers (Bodon tower to the east and Mercoeur tower to the northwest, partially destroyed), and foundations of the Crussol tower. The round road, still visible in some houses on the eastern front (parks 184, 186, 235), was supported by triple consoles. The tower of Bodon, circular and concave towards the city, presents arches allowing defenders to shoot from the inside in case of a catch.

A first circular enclosure, later mentioned as "ancient fort", initially protected the religious pole around the church of Saint Hippolyte. In the 14th century, a second enclosure was built to encompass the suburbs, as evidenced by the Church of the Conception of the Virgin, built against the rampart in 1409. In the 17th century, openings were opened and the ditches closed, while in 1855, the Soubeyrane (lower) gate was destroyed. The 1988-1989 excavations revealed the northern front after the demolition of houses built on the old ditches.

Ranked a Historic Monument in 1963, the building now includes the eastern round tower (with its door and a Gothic window), as well as portions of adjacent ramparts. The property is shared between the municipality and individuals. The vestiges illustrate the defensive evolution of this medieval city of Lozeria, marked by successive adaptations until the modern era.

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