History
In 1307, Marvejols was chosen to be the administrative capital of the king of France's lands in Gévaudan. During the Hundred Years' War, Marvejols, a royal town, was fortified and the king added the fleur-de-lis to its coat of arms. In the 16th century, most of the population became Protestants and followed Henry of Navarre. During the religious wars, the Catholics took Marvejols, a protestant stronghold, in 1586. In 1601, Henry of Navarre, now Henry IV, King of France, helped the town get back on its feet again. This gate dates back to the 17th century. It was fitted with a wooden door and portcullis and had a moat and a drawbridge worked by chain. Its defensive structure is known as "open at the throat" because the various floors are open and accessible from inside by mobile ladders.
Culture
Organised by the association Espoir'Oc, the "Occitan" festival called 'Un cop era la Lauzera" takes place in Marvejols on the first weekend in July. These famous southern French days show the Lozère of old and highlight past trades, crafts, traditions and games. This event is much admired by people out for a walk or drive who come in throngs from all around and often from quite far away.