Donjon, Le Poët-Laval

This medieval donjon (fortified tower), built by the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, dates from the early 13th century. It consists of two vaulted rooms and a terrace. It was enlarged in the 16th century and restored form 1996 to 1998. It is listed as a French historic monument.

Le Poët-Laval is a small village (with about a thousand inhabitants) in the Drôme department, not far from Dieulefit.

Vincent, I must reiterate a point I made based on what I read from Jack McRitchie. Almost every time I view one of your photos of structures I learn something about both architecture and history. This one is no exception. I'll be returning to Israel in the spring of 2020 and I will try, if possible, to visit this fortress. You did a fabulous job with the composition and perspective, especially due to all the different angles. The sharp detail amplifies the textural variety, and I'm glad to see some vegetation which yields a bit of balance between human-made and natural elements. - - My best always, michael

I have little to add to Michael's beautiful comment, a very beautiful photo enriched with clear historical notes, ciao Giangiorgio

Hi Michael,

 

thank you for your very friendly comments! This photo is rather a technical one; there is not much to play with photographing a structure like this one, so I'm pleased with your appreciation of this image. I'm glad to keep adding some info on what you see, happy to see it's well received. Kind regards, Vincent

Hi Giangiorgio,

 

thank you for your appreciation and support! I will keep on adding information when it's somehow relevant to the pictures I post, good to know you like it. Kind regards, Vincent

An impressive looking structure with wonderful light, details, and presentation. The composition fits the structure very nicely. The workmanship must be amazing to have it last so long. Best regards, Paul.

Hi Paul,

 

thanks again for another comment! Yes, this structure is amazingly strong to last 700 years, although it did need a restoration some 20 years ago. Kind regards, Vincent

Marvelous picture and your description, Vincent! I like this frame, strict shapes and lines, light, textures ... plus a blue sky background. Bravo! Sincerely, Tatiana P.S. Sorry my belated comment.

Hi Tatiana,

 

a comment that is later than others is never a problem, so please don't apologize. Thank you for this friendly comment and your support, which is highly appreciated. Kind regards, Vincent