“Bring it back to life”: squatted, the oldest building in Villeneuve-sur-Lot will be bought

“The old Viguerie”. A name that people under 20 cannot know. But everyone has already come across the architecture of the building at the corner of rue de la Convention and rue Parmentier. It housed a restaurant of the same name – the remains of the sign and blinds remain – before being abandoned. What is less known is that this building is one of the oldest buildings in the heart of the Villeneuve bastide.

It bears witness to Villeneuve’s medieval past. According to estimates, it was built in 1260, before being rebuilt at the end of the Middle Ages, probably in the 15th century. The 1647 land register indicates this location as the seat of a viguerie (charge of the viguier – judge for the count or king) who gave its name to the house. The timber-framed floor has a decoration of braces. In other words, a remarkable building, but in poor condition.

To host the Land of Art and History

The “Parmentier”, located a few steps from Place Lafayette, is regularly targeted by squatters for almost 15 years. A few months ago, the start of a fire even gave the firefighters and the City a cold sweat, which decided to accelerate the issue. In fact, the elected officials – majority and opposition – agreed to “save” this historic building. An agreement was reached with the current owners to sell it at a price of 80,000 euros.

“The municipality wishes to bring this historic building back to life by eventually installing the Land of Art and History there,” says Mayor Gérard Régnier, emphasizing the relevance and symbolism of the site which would provide better visibility. . The PAH is currently “housed” in the heart of the stud farms, in a beautiful but somewhat cramped premises. Good news for local heritage.