Fort Saint-Elme, Military fort on hilltop in Collioure, France.
Fort Saint-Elme is a fortress with a five-pointed star shape that sits on a hilltop above Collioure. The massive walls and strategic hilltop location create a commanding structure overlooking the Mediterranean.
The site began as a watchtower in the 8th century during Arab-Berber occupation. It was then transformed into a modern fortress under Charles V's orders between 1538 and 1552.
The fort displays weapons from different periods that show how military equipment evolved over time. Visitors can observe how defense technology changed as centuries passed.
The path to the fortress passes through Parc Pams and takes about 40 minutes uphill from Collioure's art museum. Comfortable shoes and patience with the climb are worthwhile for reaching the top.
The fort was part of a communication system with other coastal fortifications using smoke and fire signals. This early warning network let the Counts of Roussillon react quickly to threats.
Location: Collioure
Elevation above the sea: 165.4 m
Website: http://fortsaintelme.fr
GPS coordinates: 42.51864,3.09375
Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:42
Château Royal de Collioure
1.1 km
Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges de Collioure
1.2 km
Boramar
1.2 km
Place de l'Obélisque
1.1 km
Fort Dugommier
841 m
Couvent des dominicains de Collioure
743 m
Modern Art Museum of Collioure
742 m
Port-Vendres War Memorial
1.1 km
Fort de la Moresca
1.4 km
Molí de Cotlliure
614 m
Fort del Fanal
1.7 km
El Trenet Turístic
1.2 km
Collioure war memorial
1.2 km
Croix de cimetière de Collioure
1.2 km
Fortifications de l'Artillerie
1.2 km
Far de Cotlliure
1.1 km
Chapelle Saint-Vincent de Collioure
1.2 km
Vila fortificada de Cotlliure
1.3 km
Torre del Fanal
848 m
Ansa de la Valeta
758 m
Chapelle de la Mère de Dieu du Bon Succès de Collioure
1.3 km
Église Notre-Dame de Bonne-Nouvelle
1.2 km
Temple protestant
1.1 km
Plage de Port d'Avall
892 m
Monument to General Baron Berge
1.3 km
Cloître des Dominicains de Collioure
747 m
En Baus
937 m
Obélisque de Port-Vendres
1.1 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes