Porte Bergère du Dorat

Porte Bergère du Dorat is a stone city gate with two semi-circular towers flanking a central passage. The structure features defensive openings in its masonry and has undergone restoration work to preserve its medieval form.

The gate was built around the middle of the 15th century as part of stone fortifications that replaced earlier wooden defenses surrounding Le Dorat. It marks an important shift in how the town protected itself when communities began investing in more permanent structures.

The gate takes its name from the shepherds who once drove their flocks through this passage into town. Today visitors can observe the medieval features that reveal how people used and guarded this important entry point.

The gate is accessible year-round and can be viewed from the surrounding streets to observe its architectural details and restoration work. Visitors should treat the structure with care, as it is a protected historical site that requires respect for its preservation.

This is the last remaining medieval city gate in the entire Haute-Vienne region and retains its original 15th-century defensive elements. While many similar gates in the area were demolished or heavily altered, this structure has kept its distinctive features intact.

Location: Le Dorat

GPS coordinates: 46.21420,1.07944

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:28