Tour de Génos
Tour de Génos is a small square tower made of gray schist stone sitting on a hill called Pouy de Garet and overlooking the valley. The tower has a simple structure with just one door and a single room per level, accessible by basic ladders, with window openings for watching over the area.
The tower was built around 700 years ago in the 13th century, with first records appearing in 1256 when such structures were erected to watch over mountain passes. In the 16th century, local authorities required villagers to post guards and maintain the fortification.
The name comes from a word meaning service, reflecting its military role in defending the region. Local residents have passed down stories about this old defense system for generations and maintain respect for the site's history.
The location on a hilltop offers clear views over the valley and gorges, making it straightforward to explore the site. The surrounding area with walking paths and old routes makes it easy to approach on foot and see the landscape around it.
Local legend speaks of an underground tunnel supposedly connecting this tower to another fortification called Moulor, though this tunnel has never been found. The story reflects how the population understood the defense network and the role such structures held in their world.
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