Unusual demonstrations of medieval lifting devices at La Roque Saint-Christophe in the Périgord Noir
The medieval fortress of La Roque Saint-Christophe features (on its Grande Terrasse) several full-scale replicas of medieval siege engines. Built by skilled craftsmen specializing in these impressive machines from the past, they are fully functional and actually work! Demonstrations are offered during guided tours (note: on some tours, but not all!), providing a unique opportunity to see a drum winch in action, a capstan being raised, and a swing crane in use.
- You can also visit La Roque Saint-Christophe after dark! This is a new feature for 2024—several evenings a week, come enjoy the cliff at sunset and take in our magnificent sound-and-light show.
Real, full-scale medieval lifting machines
These aren’t models, nor are they “hamster-sized” or miniature versions! The medieval lifting machines at La Roque Saint-Christophe are authentic, fully functional replicas! They were built to the highest standards by craftsmen specializing in traditional medieval techniques and architecture. Made of wood, they are both impressive and beautiful. Fully functional, they were even used to transport materials up to the Grande Terrasse during the construction of La Roque Saint-Christophe! It’s easy to see just how valuable these machines were to our ancestors. Imagine having to carry logs, roof tiles, and other building materials up the stairs and through the rock tunnel at the entrance to the terrace!
- We offer workshops throughout the summer where you can learn about the crafts and customs of the Middle Ages and the Stone Age: the flint-knapping and fire-starting workshop, the “Music of the Origins” performance, and encounters with Guillaume the Knight and his horse, Bayard.
Watch demonstrations of lifting equipment
These are our guides, who will show you how medieval lifting machines work during guided tours. Get ready for a show and lots of laughter! They’ll climb into the “squirrel cage” (the drum winch), and might even invite you to join them! They’ll demonstrate the incredible power of these machines —which could lift up to seven times their own weight—by effortlessly hoisting a barrel or moving a heavy stone.
Depending on its size, the capstan (which is different from the knot of the same name) could hoist up to 2 metric tons of equipment; it could be horizontal or vertical.
The jib crane uses the force of the counterweight to move loads effortlessly.
The shaft winch was used to haul up water or ore. It was operated using cranks, and very heavy loads could be transported to the top of the terrace!
Children are invited to participate in the demonstrations by moving a stone or turning a spindle, with each child standing at one end of a rope. A visit that will remain etched in everyone’s memory!
