Gignod The Tower of Gignod

The tower probably dates back to the 12th-13th centuries, as suggested by André Zanotto's construction typological analysis.
Initially part of a larger fief that also included the castle of Gignod, the tower served as a lookout point to signal the advance of possible enemies at an early stage.
The toponym "Gignod" comes from the name of the family that dominated the area between the 13th and 15th centuries, although ownership of the fief dates back as early as the 12th century to the noble Lords of the Porte de Saint-Ours and Quart.
Contrary to what a local tradition might suggest, which has the tower built around 1536 in response to the threat of the Swiss Reformed, more careful studies indicate that the structure had existed for centuries, although some architectural adaptations may have been made at that time.
This also explains the rare appellation "Calvin's tower," which is related more to historical events than to its original function.
Architecture and Restoration The tower of Gignod is distinguished by its squat, square-plan structure, with the perimeter walls rising about 9.5 meters.
An architectural element of particular interest is the access door, positioned at a considerable height above the ground, which followed the common practice of making access difficult for enemies by withdrawing the ladder ladder required to enter.
The walls, devoid of windows, show holes for wooden support beams, which once supported the inner floors.
The tower was originally surrounded by walls, only traces of which survive today, but whose presence is evidenced by 19th-century engravings.
In 1908, the tower underwent a major restoration, aimed at consolidating the structures and "sewing up" the injuries created over the centuries, emphasizing the monumental and architectural value of the building.