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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The 16th century St.Bonnet-le-Château stair turret is a listed historical monument. It was initially located at the Verchère impasse before being destroyed by a fire in 1935. The remaining remains were rebuilt against the Baume Gate, a fortified entrance to the city. This monument is distinguished by its adorned architecture, including an access door framed with Corinthian pilasters and a lintel decorated with medallions and a martelé coat of arms. A blind curved pediment, surmounted by the inscription PAX HUIC DOMI, crown the ensemble, while a bay on the floor is framed by Corinthian columns.

The turret was originally a screw structure, typical of monumental Renaissance stairs. After its destruction, it was rebuilt thanks to a gift from the Thavaud family. Architectural elements, such as Corinthian capitals and triangular frontons, reflect the classical influence of the era. Its registration as a Historic Monument in 1934 reflects its heritage value, despite its approximate location reported as fair in the databases.

Today, the turret is backed by the Baume gate, on the Place du Suchet. Although partially destroyed, it remains a significant example of 16th century civil architecture in Forez. Its present state and its integration into the urban fabric recall the importance of fortifications and monumental accesses in the small medieval and renaissant towns of the region.

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