In the cliffs above the town, the remains of a 12th century troglodyte fort still stand. Nestled at the base of an imposing limestone cliff and bordering the banks of the Dordogne River, La Roque-Gageac is a highly picturesque medieval village characterised by its ochre stone houses. In the old prison, still visible to this day, 14th century graffiti has been etched into stone walls by some 70 Knights Templar, before they were sentenced to death. With its hilltop vantage point, it has extraordinary panoramic views over the valley. Perched on a hilltop, 150 metres above the river, it was built in 1281 at the behest of the French King Philip III and was a key point of defence for the French in the 100 Years War. DOMMEĭomme, with its golden yellow stone, distinctive lauze roofs and impressive architecture is one of the best preserved fortified Bastide towns in the Dordogne Valley. A visit to the Château de Vassinhac, owned by the former feudal Lord of the town, is now fully refurbished with antique pieces including the former bed chambers of the famous French writer Colette. The centre boasts many impressive 15th and 16th century houses such as the Maison de la Sirène, with period interiors and a small mermaid sculpted in a stone outside. A wander through the narrow cobbled streets leads to an impressive church, artisanal workshops, lovely restaurants and small boutiques selling local wines and decorative objects. The village became a stronghold of the Viscounts of Turenne in the 14th century, one of the largest fiefdoms in France. The distinctive deep red sandstone of the buildings (rich in iron oxide) sets it apart from any other and is at its most striking at dusk. The medieval turrets and towers of Collonges-la-Rouge define the skyline of this unusual 14th century village.
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