The Church of Notre-Dame du Moutet
Discover a place rich in history, where Occitan roots blend with the region's medieval traditions.
A castle for defence
Deep-rooted in Gascony, at the gateway to the Lomagne region, Le Moutet is an ancient jurisdiction with its own consuls, which remained autonomous until the French Revolution, when it was attached to the village of Saint Nicolas de la Grave, 2 km away.
The story begins with the terrible tensions between the abbots of Moissac and the lords in the 12th century, which led the viscount of Lomagne to build an independent fortified castle at Le Moutet. It was a veritable fortress with a sentry walk and moats, located where the hamlet's stone cross now stands.
What is the origin of the name "Moutet"?
The singular word "Moutet" comes from the Occitan "Mota", meaning motte or small hill. This name refers to the land that was compacted to build the church, the castle (or "motte castrale") and the neighbouring houses. This process, known as "mottage", consisted of compacting the earth under the effect of humidity, a technique used by peasants in the Middle Ages, who benefited from a "mottage" right.
Notre-Dame Church
Listed as a Historic Monument in 1978, this church is a real curiosity, as it is one of the few mud buildings in the region. It was built in the 12th century for the inhabitants of Le Moutet and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The first church, modest and built of solid earth, was damaged during the Wars of Religion. The current structure dates mainly from the 17th century, with its Toulouse-style bell tower and traditional Garonne valley architecture.
Due to its condition, the church was closed for safety reasons. From 2008 onwards, a vast restoration programme was undertaken to save it. Ten years of work have brought Notre-Dame du Moutet back to life.
Today, Le Moutet and its church continue to evoke the ancient traditions and authenticity of this heritage. Open for cultural events such as concerts or guided tours, take advantage of these opportunities to discover the hidden treasure of this modest church: a rare collection of rustic furniture revealing centuries of history and devotion. Listed as a Monument Historique in 1998, these works of art, some of which have been moved for protection, form a precious testimony to the past.
Modeste et rare par sa construction en terre crue !
Chuchoté par Maryse
