Northern Catalonia, Historical territory in Pyrénées-Orientales, France
Northern Catalonia is a region in southern France positioned between the Pyrenees mountains, the Corbières Massif, and the Mediterranean coastline. The eastern portion contains the Roussillon plain, which gradually gives way to higher terrain toward the west.
The territory was originally part of Spain until 1659, when the Treaty of the Pyrenees transferred it to France. This treaty established the modern border between the two nations that persists today.
Both Catalan and French are spoken in daily life throughout the region. Perpignan serves as the main administrative and cultural center where both influences are visible.
The region is crossed by major transportation corridors connecting France and Spain, including rail lines and roads through the mountain passes. Visitors should be aware that terrain and weather conditions vary depending on the season, especially in higher areas.
The region contains Llívia, a Spanish exclave completely surrounded by French territory. This unusual situation arose from historical boundary agreements and is maintained today through a special road corridor.
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