If you have the chance to take a nice trip aboard the Norbert barges in La Roque-Gageac, all you have to do is raise your eyes above the Dordogne, beyond the superb dwellings nestled against the cliff to admire a long excavation. These are the remains of a fort, located more than forty meters above the river and which was once a large-scale building complex with a very elaborate defensive system. Amanda knows this site well since she works there:
“This troglodyte fort had a strategic role. It served as a refuge for man throughout history and in particular it made it possible to control navigation on the Dordogne. “
– Marie-Dominique PRIVe
Weakened by successive landslides since 1957, the roof of the fort partially detached in 2010, leading to the demolition of a portion of the built remains, and consequently, the closure of the site. But fortunately , Jean-Max Touron, passionate about cave dwellings, prehistory and the Middle Ages noticed the potential of this forgotten fortress and decided to undertake the rehabilitation of the site in 2019.
Since June 2020, this incredible fortified heritage of the Périgord Noir has been open to the public again from April until mid-November and during school holidays. But to get there and enjoy the splendid 180-degree view, you have to earn it. Be prepared for a 140-step climb. It’s really worth it
– Marie-Dominique PRIVE
During your visit to the fort, you will discover
- An exhibition that traces the history of Fort de la Roque-Gageac.
- A 3D reconstruction video that presents the bishop’s castle in the Middle Ages, which has now disappeared and of which only traces remain on the cliff.
- A 180 degree panoramic view of the valley.
For more information: the fort of La Roque-Gageac 05 53 31 04 08