Vence Postcards - Portes (Gates) - Steve And Carole In Vence

Location: Portes (Gates) – 280 postcards.

There are currently five “portes” or “gates” into Vence old town. Porte du Peyra, leading to Place du Peyra, is one of the original gates, dating back to 1582. Le Pontis, a large arched passageway that you will find at the end of the small market street was not one of the original gates to the city. It was opened in 1863 to give villagers another way into the old town. Originally called “Le Pontis” it was renamed “Alsace Lorraine” in memory of the Eastern provinces of France that were lost in the war of 1870. Interestingly enough, I’ve yet to find any old postcards which feature Le Pontis. La Porte d’Orient is also not an original entrance into the city. It was opened in 1760 by Monseigneur Moreau so that he could easily reach the Great Seminary. La Porte du Signadour dates from the 14th century. It was known as the “watchtower gate” and it was used as a lookout post over the horizon during troubled times. The tower no longer stands, but the gate remains. Le Portail Levis, the “Drawbridge Gate,” is the oldest gate of the town, dating back to the 14th century.13

All of these beautiful portes (or gates) are featured prominently in the postcards of this collection. Additionally, there are other smaller portes found inside the old town which show up from time to time. On interesting note is that la Cour de l’Ancien Éevêché once had two portes, on at each end of the courtyard. Only one now remains.

If you have any questions about any of the cards featured here, if you see any errors or if you would like more information, drop me an email at steve@steveandcaroleinvence.com.

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