Porte Prison, Medieval city gate in Vannes, France
Porte Prison is a medieval city gate in Vannes with a round tower topped by a conical roof that connects to a rectangular stone structure built from solid granite blocks. The interior holds guard rooms with semicircular vaults and earthen floors that reflect the original medieval design.
The gate originated in the 13th century as a defensive structure with a drawbridge and portcullis system. During the French Revolution it was repurposed as a prison, a function that gave it the name it still carries today.
The gate displays medieval defensive features that visitors can still see today, such as the arrow slits cut into the walls. These details reveal how guards once worked and watched over the city from this strategic point.
Access to the upper levels is through a straight staircase on the north side between the west wall and the adjacent building. Wear sturdy shoes as the interior features stone surfaces and steps that can be slippery or uneven.
The structure preserves rare examples of medieval guard rooms with original earthen floors, a detail that survives in few places. These intact floors allow visitors to see how daily spaces actually looked centuries ago.
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