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La Sauvetat
A village fort
Situated between the Allier and the volcanic peaks – or puys – of Corent and Saint-Sandoux, La Sauvetat offers landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, punctuated by vineyards and cereal fields, forming a real showcase of remarkable architecture that is deeply linked to its history. Established on a site already occupied in Gallo-Roman times, the town of La Sauvetat is a villeneuve (new town) that was probably created at the instigation of Alphonse de Poitiers in the 13th century. An establishment of the Order of the Hospitallers is recorded here in 1293. Later, Odon de Montaigu, Grand Prior of Auvergne, expanded and fortified the village. From the 17th century onwards, the fort was no longer a refuge, and the buildings were used for farming. This marked the beginning of a long period of neglect during which the place was forgotten. However, thanks to the work of one academic and the efforts of the heritage-minded residents of La Sauvetat, the history of this « village fort » was seen in a new light in the 1960s, whilst the restoration of the medieval town was being undertaken. The advantageous location of La Sauvetat attracted residents who appreciated the quality of the architecture, the quiet way of life on the Allier plain, and the close proximity to nature thanks to the green belt that follows the Charlet stream. Close to major transport links, the town provides a dynamic link between the professional activity of the towns of Clermont and Issoire and the outdoor activities of the Sancy massif.
1. Public fountains
2. History of the fort
3. The big tower
4. Saint-Jean Gate
5. The loggias
6. The primitive core
7. Chapel of the Hospitallers
8. From ice silo to prison
9. Chapel of the Holy Spirit
10. The washhouse and the bujade