Château de Villerouge-Termenès

Château de Villerouge-Termenès is a medieval fortification with four corner towers and thick defensive walls that define a secured compound. An entrance ramp leads to a concealed gateway positioned within this quadrangular layout.

The fortress served as the administrative seat of the Archbishops of Narbonne starting in 1110 and remained under their control until the French Revolution. This extended period of ecclesiastical rule made it a significant center for managing their regional properties.

The castle holds deep meaning in regional religious history due to its connection with the Cathar faith that once flourished in this area. Walking through its rooms, visitors encounter stories of a faith that shaped medieval Occitania.

The castle now functions as a museum with reconstructed scenes and educational videos portraying medieval life, and includes a restaurant serving traditional recipes. Plan enough time to walk through the different areas and fully experience the exhibition.

Unlike most fortifications of its era, the castle was built beside a stream rather than atop a hill as was standard practice. This unusual location choice reflects different defensive strategies and access to water.