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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Jonas caves are a medieval troglodytic site formed from a volcanic eruption, whose first occupations date back to the Celts around 400 BC (Gallo-Roman altar and statue). The men dug about 70 rooms on five floors in a 500-metre-long cliff, sheltering up to 600 people: lords, monks, peasants and military. The eastern part was reserved for the lord, while the north welcomed villagers and animals.

In the Middle Ages, the site was a feudal mansion and a refuge during the Hundred Years War (XIVth-15th centuries). The Romanesque chapel, decorated with 11th century murals, remained in use until the Revolution. The seigneurial oven, the latrines, a defensive harness and a seam (sanitary isolation room) testify to the community organisation. The Lord's house, occupied by Dalmas de Jaunac (the bishop of Saint John of Jerusalem), was protected by a staircase with a view and a raised door.

Probably abandoned in the 17th century after the end of feudal wars, the site deteriorated: lime was recovered for the land, and vandalism damaged the walls. Only the chapel, classified as a Historical Monument in 1886 with the caves, was partially restored in 1958. The high pieces, less exposed to the wind, were transformed into dovecotes, exploited for their manure.

The caves illustrate human adaptation to a volcanic relief, mixing defensive, religious and agricultural functions. Their troglodytic architecture (kitchens, vaulted attices, sighs) reflects medieval ventilation and storage techniques. The site, a communal property, is now open to visits, with explanatory panels and 3D refunds of the chapel.

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