La Couvertoirade, Medieval fortified village in Causse du Larzac, France
La Couvertoirade is a fortified village on the Causse du Larzac where stone walls frame narrow streets lined with old stone houses. The site includes twin defensive towers, a restored windmill structure, and a church that visitors can explore today.
The village was founded in the 12th century by Knights Templar who built a fortress there. After their order was dissolved in 1312, the Knights of St John constructed the defensive walls that surround it today.
The village keeps local crafts alive through workshops in pottery and weaving housed within the old stone buildings. Visitors can watch artisans work and see how these traditional skills remain part of daily life.
The village is best explored on foot, walking through the narrow streets to see the different sections of the fortification. The tourist office in Nant can arrange guided tours if you want to learn more about the history and buildings.
The village houses an old château built by the Templars, representing one of the few surviving structures from this military order. The building still shows the original layout and construction methods that were typical for their fortified settlements.
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