Citadel of Perpignan

The Citadel of Perpignan is a hexagonal fortification with six bastions, red brick walls, and two entrance gates that control access from the city and surrounding countryside. The fortress sprawls across a substantial area with various interior zones, including military buildings and a former royal palace.

Construction of the fortress began in 1477 under Louis XI of France, and it underwent major expansions under Charles V. In the late 1600s, the military engineer Vauban redesigned large portions to modernize the defenses for the era.

The Palace of the Kings of Majorca stands within the walls and reminds visitors of when Perpignan served as the capital of that kingdom. The rooms and structures still reflect the medieval power that once centered here.

The complex remains an active military site with army personnel stationed in the barracks, so public access is restricted to certain areas. Plan adequate time to explore the accessible sections and check for any entry restrictions before visiting.

Building this fortress required demolishing roughly one-third of medieval Perpignan to create open defensive slopes around the walls. This massive urban transformation displaced thousands of residents and permanently reshaped how the city was laid out.

Location: Perpignan

Elevation above the sea: 57.7 m

Address: Sud de la vila vella

GPS coordinates: 42.69389,2.89659

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:24