Located not far from Cahors in the Lot department, in the heart of the hamlet of Saint-Michel de Cours, stands one of the oldest barn-stables in the Lot department. The building, which appears unremarkable and was once thatched, conceals a striking curved roof structure resting directly on the ground. Laboratory analysis of the wood’s growth rings has recently dated it to the late 15th century.
The barn-stable of Saint-Michel de Cours indeed features exceptional architecture, of great interest to purists of medieval architecture.
“Inside, it houses a non-triangulated roof structure with curved rafters joined by a top yoke. This self-supporting system belongs to the ‘cruck’ type, which includes curved roof structures resting on the ground. The “cruck” is primarily characterized by the use of large curved or angled members, called rafters, on which the purlins supporting the roof rest. Running in a single continuous span from the ridge to the base of the walls, the rafters rest on limestone slabs or blocks embedded in the masonry. The assembly of these elements is here simply secured by a small transverse piece placed under the ridge purlin and crossing the cruck beams: the yoke.”
With support from the Lot Department, the Occitanie Region, and the Park, the new municipality of Bellefont-la-Rauze decided to undertake the restoration of the building it owns.
A true rescue operation for a rare example of late medieval rural architecture, initially destined for demolition.
To help preserve this barn-stable, you can send your donations to
“Grange-étable de Saint-Michel-de-Cours Subscription Form”
46090 Bellefont-la-Rauze,
or make an online donation (secure website)
www.fondation-patrimoine.org/55382
