Château de Quéribus
The last Cathar stronghold, built on the summit of a 728-meter solitary peak, where the castle and cliff merge, with views over the Roussillon plain and the Mediterranean.
Château de Quéribus stands on a solitary peak near the village of Cucugnan. It was captured by French royal troops in 1255 and is regarded as the last Cathar stronghold. The castle rises in tiers up the mountain, and the highest point, the main tower, contains a Gothic 'pillar hall' where a single column supports a fan vault. This is a highlight of any visit. On clear days, you can see Mount Canigou, the Roussillon plain and the Mediterranean. Admission is about €9, including an audio guide. Opening hours vary with the season, and the site may close on very windy days. The walk up from the parking area takes about 15–20 minutes on steep, windy ground, so bring a jacket. It is about 45 minutes' drive from Perpignan and is often combined with Peyrepertuse and the Galamus Gorge as a one-day driving route.
Opening hours
Hours vary by season: about 9:00 AM–8:00 PM in summer, shorter in winter; may close on windy days
Nearby sights
- Château de Peyrepertuse
- Tautavel Prehistory Museum
- Gorges de Galamus
- Orgues d'Ille-sur-Têt
- Serrabone Priory
- Fort de Salses
- Le Castillet
- Musée Hyacinthe Rigaud