Les fortifications médiévales de la place du Vigan à Albi (Tarn)

Abstract

In spring 1999, the excavations on Vigan square in Albi brought to light several elements of fortification linked to the near presence of a gate and integrated into a barbacane-type complex. Archaeological analysis allows an attempt at chronological evaluation of this defensive system. The first device, based essentially on a system of ditches, seems have been put in place during the XIVth century. Reorganisations connected to the evolution of armament and siege techniques, were then carried out until the XVIth century. From this date, a slow loss of interest in the defensive system becomes apparent. In spite of a renewal of interest in this area, with the construction of an expressive gate in the middle of the XVIIth century, this slow abandonment ends with the definitive dismantling of the defences in the second half of the XVIIIth century.