The Lanterne des morts of Cellefrouin, hidden in a charming French village, is a Roman-style structure that towers over 12 meters above the ground. Constructed around the end of the 12th century, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to ancient beliefs and practices. The Lanterne showcases an intricate design, featuring grooved bases, eight columns of varying sizes, a conical roof, a ball on top, and a cross at the summit. Its cone-shaped structure, adorned with triangular stones resembling pine cone scales, hints at a union of the spiritual and earthly realms.
The base of the structure houses four small windows, designed to disperse the lamp's light around the building, offering guidance to the lost souls. A smaller opening at the cone's midpoint allows smoke to escape. Although rebuilt or consolidated in 1828, the pedestal dates back to the 12th century. Decorative grooves, unique to the bases, columns, and cone, and the four windows positioned toward the four valleys of Son, Sonnette, Bonnieure, and Tardoire, indicate its purpose as a guide for lost individuals.
Despite the mystery surrounding its origins and intentions, the Lanterne stands as a testament to France's rich history.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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