Elne, Medieval commune in Pyrénées-Orientales, France
Elne is a fortified commune in Pyrénées-Orientales perched on elevated terrain between the Mediterranean Sea and the Tech River. Its walled old town features medieval gates and a cathedral with a notable cloister that forms the heart of the settlement.
The settlement was known in antiquity as Illiberis and held strategic importance in the Mediterranean region. It later became fortified during medieval times and developed as a center of ecclesiastical authority in the area.
The name comes from its ancient roots as Illiberis, reflecting centuries of continuous settlement. In the cathedral's cloister, visitors can observe carved stone reliefs featuring religious scenes and plant designs from different architectural periods.
The town is easily walkable since major sights cluster in the compact historic center. Starting from the information center at Place de la République helps orient you through the narrow streets of the old quarter.
From 1939 to 1944, a Swiss hospital operated a maternity center here that sheltered hundreds of pregnant women during World War II. This quiet humanitarian work saved mothers and babies during a time of great hardship.
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