Citadel of Perpignan

The citadel forms a hexagonal fortification with six bastions, red brick walls, and two entrance gates controlling access from the city and countryside.

The initial fortress construction began in 1477 under Louis XI of France, with major expansions by Charles V and final modifications by Vauban in the late 17th century.

The citadel includes the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, representing the medieval period when Perpignan served as capital of the Kingdom of Majorca.

The military complex remains active with army personnel occupying the barracks, limiting public access to certain sections of the fortification.

The construction of the citadel required demolishing one-third of Perpignan's urban area, approximately twenty hectares, to create defensive glacis slopes.

Location: Perpignan

Elevation above the sea: 57.7 m

Address: Sud de la vila vella

GPS coordinates: 42.69389,2.89659

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:54