In a significant boost to cultural heritage in France, the château de Logempré in Pont-Saint-Pierre and the historic Pont Valentré in Cahors have been selected for support through the Loto du patrimoine initiative. This program, aimed at preserving France's rich history, highlights the commitment to saving these landmarks, both deeply rooted in the country's heritage.
The château de Logempré, an 800-year-old building, was officially announced as a recipient of funding on March 18, 2025. It is one of eighteen emblematic sites to be featured in the 8th edition of the Mission Patrimoine fundraising games, set to launch in September 2025. To save the château from ruin, it was purchased in late 2023 by Antoine and Kristell Chedru, who quickly rallied local volunteers passionate about preserving their history.
In June 2024, the pair established the association known as 'Les Amis du château de Pont-Saint-Pierre,' which has since grown to over a hundred members, all dedicated to restoring the site. In an effort to stabilize and revitalize the château, the members have already begun to clean the grounds and address the extensive restoration needs stemming from years of neglect.
The history of the château reveals a storied past. Dating back to 1200 when it was first known as "Malemaison," the structure underwent numerous transformations, notably during the Hundred Years' War when it was destroyed in 1359 and rebuilt a year later. Henri IV resided there in 1589, illustrating its importance over the centuries. As Damien Quaegebeur, treasurer of the association, noted, "A château has been at this location for over 800 years." However, the urgency for restoration has become increasingly apparent, as only days after its purchase, a central portion of the structure collapsed.
Public interest in the château is set to increase, especially with the upcoming European Heritage Days in September, when the amount of funding from the Loto du patrimoine will be announced. Contributions to support the restoration can be made through the Fondation du patrimoine or by purchasing a scratch ticket from the Française des jeux in September, which offers a chance to win 1.5 million euros for a mere 15-euro investment. Since its inception in 2018, the Mission Patrimoine initiative has helped save over 980 sites across France, demonstrating the profound impact of this program.
Transitioning to another treasured site, the Pont Valentré, located in Cahors, has also gained recognition. The bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage monument and unique example of medieval architecture from the 14th century, was selected among the notable sites by the Loto du patrimoine. According to Jean-Luc Marx, the mayor of Cahors, this announcement is met with joy and pride: "C'est une excellente chose." The Pont Valentré, uniquely situated to cross the Lotte river, has become an integral part of the city’s cultural identity, attracting about 250,000 visitors annually.
In anticipation of needed restorations, Marx has indicated that the exact amount of funding for the Pont Valentré will not be determined until early autumn. However, estimates suggest the funding will range between 200,000 and 500,000 euros. "The selection was made by a patrimoine mission pilotée par Stéphane Berne," Marx explained, highlighting the rigorous criteria used to assess the bridge for inclusion in the program.
With the restoration work expected to start in spring 2026, the city is preparing for extensive renovations that have not been undertaken for over 150 years. Historical restorations are critical, especially given that the bridge's structural integrity has suffered over the years. Marx noted that "il faut reprendre vraiment l'essentiel des revêtements," emphasizing the necessity for thorough refurbishments and improvements.
In addition to financial contributions from the Loto du patrimoine, local community efforts are underway to raise awareness and funds for the restoration. Plans to engage citizens through competitions and sporting events are in place, encouraging participants to contribute a portion of their entry fees to support the restoration of the Pont Valentré. This initiative aims to bolster not only the bridge's restoration but also community pride in local heritage.
As these two historical sites receive recognition through the Loto du patrimoine, they serve as a reminder of France's rich cultural history. Collaborative efforts between local communities, government initiatives, and public contributions play a critical role in ensuring these monuments are preserved not just for present enjoyment but for future generations. The concerted push to save sites like the château de Logempré and the Pont Valentré underscores the ongoing commitment to maintaining France's historical landscape against the tides of time.
