In the footsteps of the Knights Hospitallers…
After the dissolution of the Templar Order in 1312, the Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem inherited their possessions on Larzac. From 1315, they set about regrouping a few scattered farms around the Logis des Chevaliers and the church they built and dedicated to St-Jean Le Baptiste: the village of Le Viala was born.
A century later, during the Hundred Years’ War, bands of looters and truckers scoured the land of the Grands Causses. At the request of the village’s inhabitants, the knights erected this refuge tower, where the population could store their crops and take shelter in case of danger.
A lesson in medieval architecture…
Massive, rectangular, impressive in these proportions, the 30-meter-high Tower rises over 5 levels and boasts all the elements of medieval defensive works:
thick walls at the base, loopholes, battlements crowned with battlements and machicolations to repel any would-be attackers at the foot of the Tower. Above a vaulted first floor, 4 floor levels before accessing the roof terrace. Crops and inhabitants are safely protected by these walls.
Viala Du Pas De Jaux Sp Ot Larzac ValleesVisits and activities
Visit the Tour de Viala de-Pas-de-Jaux all year round. In summer, dress up as a knight or lady to discover the site: costumed tours for young and old, and activities for children, are sure to delight families.
From the top of the roof terrace, the 360° Larzac landscapes illustrate the living agropastoralism that made the Grands Causses a UNESCO World Heritage site: 4 lavognes, drailles and passades… Welcome to Larzac!
