City Walls of Poitiers

City Walls in Poitiers

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Parc de Blossac

The City Walls of Poitiers date back to the Roman era, when the city was known as Limonum. Initially, Poitiers did not have fortifications, as the Romans considered it unnecessary due to its strategic location on a plateau. However, in 276 AD, after a wave of Germanic invasions, the city was rebuilt with fortified walls to protect its inhabitants. These defenses allowed Poitiers to flourish for another century, serving as a key stronghold in Western Gaul.

During the Middle Ages, the walls were expanded and reinforced as Poitiers became an important political and religious center. The fortifications included watchtowers, gates, and ramparts, ensuring the city’s security against external threats. The walls played a crucial role in the Hundred Years’ War, particularly during the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, when English forces captured the city. Despite these conflicts, the walls remained a defining feature of Poitiers, shaping its urban development.

By the 17th century, as warfare evolved and the city expanded, sections of the walls were dismantled to accommodate new buildings and roads. However, remnants of the original fortifications can still be seen today, particularly near Rue des Arènes Romaines, where traces of the ancient Roman walls remain. Some medieval towers and gates have also survived, offering a glimpse into Poitiers’ defensive past.

Today, the City Walls of Poitiers serve as a historical reminder of the city’s resilience and strategic importance. Walking through the old town, visitors can trace the outlines of the former fortifications, imagining the bustling medieval streets that once lay within. The preserved sections of the walls continue to be a point of interest for history enthusiasts, connecting Poitiers’ Roman origins with its medieval legacy.

The City Walls of Poitiers appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Poitiers!

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