The Villeneuve Gate

An imposing monument at the entrance to the town centre

Located to the west of the city, it has an arched door with a rampart path, machicolations and is protected by two round towers with the same defense. It was even equipped with a drawbridge during its construction. On the interior side, on the first floor, we can notice the caretaker's room which communicates with the guardhouse, which is formed by a round room with a dome that opens onto the terrace.
In the 17th century, the city, which feared an attack, decided to wall up the gate and established an additional half-moon rampart flanked by two sentry box. Today, there are no real witnesses to these changes.

Opposite the Villeneuve Gate is a very pretty chapel called Notre-Dame des Abscès, which was built outside the ramparts when the plague ravaged Pernes. It was located in the middle of an almond field, which, today, has given way to houses.

Books that mention the Porte Villeneuve

Booklet: “Pernes, la Perle du Comtat : le Petit Guide"

Discover the history of Pernes-les-Fontaines through its coat of arms, major monuments, mansions and most iconic fountains. This 30-page A5 guide offers a quick yet comprehensive overview of the town’s main attractions.

On sale at the Pernes-les-Fontaines Tourist Office / 30 pages / €2 / Authors: Laetitia Onde-Quiot and Jean-Pierre Segarra / Payment by cheque or cash / Not available for mail order

 
Book “Pernes-les-Fontaines”

This book offers a valuable summary of the history of Pernes, a village that has weathered wars, plagues and hardships without losing its vitality. It takes us through its narrow streets and past its fountains, to discover monuments, legends and traditions: chapels, mills, bories and ancient mansions that have stood the test of time.

On sale at the Pernes-les-Fontaines tourist office / 171 pages / €7.50 / Authors: Denise Cartoux, Pierre Fayot, Pierre Gabert / By cheque or cash / Not available for mail order