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Monument · Cognac, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Porte Saint-Jacques
Old city gate on the banks of the Charente, with two round towers, the main remnant of Cognac’s medieval walls. Restored, it is open for guided tours with access to the terrace overlooking the river.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Porte Saint-Jacques
The Porte Saint-Jacques guarded Cognac’s riverside entrance, next to the bridge over the Charente. The two round towers flanking it are the main remnant of the walls that once encircled the town in the Middle Ages, and the site is protected as a historic monument.
The name comes from the Saint-Jacques quarter on the opposite bank, where pilgrims stopped on the way to Santiago de Compostela. Over time the gate had a drawbridge and later served as a prison.
The gate was restored and is open for guided tours, which pass through the interior of the towers and up to the terrace, with views over the Charente, the quays and the rooftops of the old town.
From the gate starts the street that climbs to the old town, passing the castle where François I was born. From Place de la Levade on the riverbank you get the most familiar view of the towers.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From about 15 minutes to see it from outside, up to an hour with the guided tour.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the light hits the towers and the river. Guided tours run at set times; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on Quai Maurice-Hennessy, on the banks of the Charente, about a 10-minute walk from the centre.
Tip
See the towers first from Place de la Levade on the riverbank, then go through the gate and climb the street that leads to the old town.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Porte Saint-Jacques
What is the Porte Saint-Jacques of Cognac?
The old city gate on the riverside, with two round towers, the main remnant of the medieval walls.
Can you climb the towers of the Porte Saint-Jacques?
Yes, on guided tours, which go through the interior and reach the terrace, with views over the Charente.
Why is the gate called Saint-Jacques?
Because of the Saint-Jacques quarter on the other bank of the river, where pilgrims stopped on the way to Santiago de Compostela.