Peyrepertuse, Medieval fortress in Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse, France
Peyrepertuse is a medieval castle ruin set high on a limestone ridge at around 800 meters elevation, divided into two distinct sections connected by a stone staircase. The upper citadel and lower fortress form a compact defensive complex adapted to the steep terrain.
The fortress passed from Aragonese control to France in 1240, after which King Louis IX strengthened its defenses by building the Sant Jordi dungeon. These fortifications made it one of the most powerful strongholds in the region during that era.
The fortress served as a key stronghold in a network of castles that guarded the frontier between France and Spain. Today, walking through its ruins, you can sense how important this position was for controlling the mountain passage.
Access to the castle involves a winding path from the parking area that demands sturdy footwear and reasonable fitness. The visit requires climbing and descending uneven paths and stairs across several hundred meters of elevation change.
The upper section resembles a ship's prow and contains the Church of Sainte-Marie, with more than 60 steps carved directly into the rock. This engineering feat shows how medieval builders adapted their construction to the natural stone formation.
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