Château de Puilaurens

The Chateau de Puilaurens is located on the Mont Ardu, in the Cathar Region. The castle offers an amazing view on the valley and on the surrounding mountains. The first mention of the castle dates from the 10th century. It became the property of the French monarchy in the 13th century, when it was fortified by Louis IX in order to protect the Languedon region from the Spanish invasions. It became the best guarded site in the area.

In the 17th century, after the Treaty of the Pyrenees, which clearly established the border between France and Spain, the castle fell into disuse. To access the castle, you must walk through a nice botanical path. Once you get to the top of the small mountain, you can see the elements of the defensive military architecture of the fort, such as the round path and the embrasures.