Château de La Salveterra

Château de La Salveterra is a medieval fortress ruin on a limestone plateau at 400 meters altitude, with remains of fortified walls, a tower, and vaulted rooms forming the core structure. The site features several defensive chambers and passages that once protected inhabitants from external threats.

King James I of Aragon ordered construction in 1246 to establish a defensive line along the French-Aragonese border as part of territorial expansion efforts. The fortress served as a crucial outpost during conflicts between these two kingdoms.

The fortress offered tax breaks and asylum rights to draw inhabitants, creating an independent community of farmers and refugees in this remote location. This approach shows how medieval strongholds functioned as places of refuge and settlement for people seeking protection.

Access is via a marked path leading to the plateau, though windy conditions require caution due to the exposed hilltop location. Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven and can be slippery in places.

Two water cisterns carved directly into the rock remain visible, showing how inhabitants solved water storage challenges in this dry highland area. These reservoirs were critical for sustaining the community in a location with limited water sources.

Location: Opoul-Périllos

Elevation above the sea: 395.6 m

GPS coordinates: 42.87632,2.86161

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22