FIG. 249. APPROACH TO THE TOWN GATE, EZA.
arranged. The outer approach ([Fig. 249]) is by a passage faced by a cannon port-hole. From this access a gate at right angles leads to a second narrow enclosed passage commanded by a machicolated tower, through which a winding and ascending vaulted way conducts into the town ([Fig. 250].)) The view of the interior of this gateway is very picturesque ([Fig. 251].)) The town itself consists of a few narrow tortuous lanes bordered by decaying houses, chiefly tenanted by donkeys, pigs, and poultry. On the top of the bare rock, and approached by great steps cut in the solid limestone, a few scanty and unintelligible fragments of the castle are yet visible, but the greater portion has been entirely swept away.
FIG. 250. ENTRANCE GATEWAY TO TOWN, EZA.
Eza was the Arisium of Antonine’s Itinerary, and it formed, like Gourdon, during mediæval times, a pretty secure retreat from the assaults of the Corsairs. The castle was, however, demolished by the Turks under Barbarossa in 1543. The arcaded tower house, and the door lintel, shewn in Figs. 252 and 253, were the only objects of architectural interest discoverable in the place.
FIG. 251. INTERIOR OF ENTRANCE GATEWAY, EZA.