Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion

City Gate in Saint-Émilion

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pascal MOULIN

The Porte Brunet is one of the last remaining medieval gates in Saint-Émilion, France. Built in the 12th century, it was part of the town’s fortifications, commissioned by the English to protect the prosperous village. Unlike other gates that were destroyed over time, the Porte Brunet has survived, offering a glimpse into the town’s medieval past.

The gate takes its name from the Gascon word “Branet”, meaning moorland or clearing, as it originally opened onto the countryside. Measuring 9.5 meters long and 3.9 meters wide, it features two arches and a stunner, a defensive opening through which defenders could throw stones or boiling water at attackers. In the 17th century, the passage was widened to allow carts to pass through, and remnants of wooden doors on hinges are still visible today.

Excavations have uncovered the foundations of an entrance châtelet, represented today by circular paving on either side of the bridge entrance. The Brunet Gate was strategically positioned near the Bouqueyre Gate, allowing defenders to monitor access points to the town. During the Hundred Years’ War, additional fortifications were added, including the Guetteur Tower, which helped oversee movement between the upper and lower parts of Saint-Émilion.

Today, the Porte Brunet is a must-see historical site, offering visitors a chance to explore Saint-Émilion’s medieval heritage. The gate provides a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding valley, making it a perfect spot for photography and historical reflection.

The Porte Brunet, Saint-Émilion appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Émilion!

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