サンレジェールのおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

The Trench of Gates: Gateway to Gaume, Gateway to Legends 1. What is it? Physical Description The Trench of Gates is a deep and spectacular rocky gorge, naturally carved by the Vire River (a tributary of the Semois) into the sandstone plateau of the Gaume forest. Located in the village of Dampicourt (commune of Rouvroy), on the French border, it forms a narrow and winding notch, framed by high sandstone walls and strangely shaped rocks. Its name comes from its topography: the site gives the impression of crossing several successive natural "gates." 2. A Strategic Position: Military History The true fame of the Trench of Gates comes from its historical role as a natural fortress and strategic border post. A Gallic Stronghold? : Its easily defensible configuration suggests that it was used as a refuge since the Gallic era. The Roman Fort: Its strategic role became evident during the Roman era. The Romans established a castellum (a fortified camp) there to control the passage between Belgic Gaul and Imperial Trier, and to protect the nearby Roman road. Remains of these fortifications were still visible several centuries ago. A Millennial Challenge: Due to its position on the border, the site has been contested and fortified throughout history, from the Middle Ages to modern wars. It offered an ideal control point over one of the few passable passages through the region's wooded terrain.

One of the village's peculiarities

The trail from this viewpoint is a real balancing challenge towards the end, very rocky with large gravel. It seems to me that a few years ago the trail was not so perilous. It is part of the official permanent route "La Croix Renson en Gaume" which advises to do it clockwise, so this uphill trail is impossible! Except for a trialist with Hulk legs and a motorcycle traction. 🙄

It depends which way... 😀😇

It stings a little 😂

At this site, fed by two tributary streams of the Ton, ironworks are believed to have been carried out as early as the 15th century. Column furnaces (internationally renowned and still highly sought after today), chimney backs, and pumps were manufactured here. On some roads in the region and in the surrounding villages, you can still see sewer inspection chamber signs bearing the inscription "Ateliers et fonderie Dominicy Châtillon" (Dominicy Châtillon Workshops and Foundry). These establishments later specialized in the manufacture of agricultural machinery. The factory enjoyed great prosperity during the interwar period. But in 1966, it was forced to close its doors permanently.

A set of 14 crosses representing the different stages of Christ's passion. These stations were donated by pious donors whose names are inscribed on the back of each station.

This cross marks the spot where Jean (Joseph by his real name) Dulieu - cattle dealer - returning from Saint-Léger to Vance was attacked and killed before being robbed of a large sum of money.