Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The walls of Rions, classified as a historical monument in 1862, are a collection of medieval fortifications erected in the fourteenth century around the city. The remains still visible include the Lhyan tower (south gate restored in 1881), the Citadelle facing the Garonne, the west ramparts with the Charles VII cave, and the Guet tower. Two parallel ditches, separated by a round road, once surrounded the city, protected by palissades and connected to barbacans in front of the doors. This defensive system reflects the military techniques of the time, adapted to the steep topography of the site.

The history of the compound is marked by successive conflicts. In 1295, Charles de Valois, Count of Valois, was seated and destroyed the first defences of Rions. In 1330, under English rule, Édouard III authorized William Seguin, the local lord, to rebuild the ramparts to protect the city during the Hundred Years War. The square (Garonne side) and round (outside) towers bear witness to this period, while subsequent repairs, such as those of the northern gate in the 18th century, show continued occupation. The citadel was also built during the Wars of Religion (16th century).

The remaining elements illustrate the architectural and strategic evolution of Rions: the door of the Lhyan, equipped with an assommoir, a herse and archery, or the vaulted fountain in a broken cradle under the Citadel. The partial demolition in the 19th century (like that of the castle towers) was followed by restorations, notably by the architect Léon Drouyn in 1881. Today, these remains, owned by the commune, recall the key role of Rions as a stronghold between Aquitaine and Guyenne, under French and English influences.

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