Château de Montségur: A Cathar Stronghold
Explore the ruins of Château de Montségur, a symbol of Cathar resistance, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval history in the French Pyrenees.
Perched atop a rocky peak in the French Pyrenees, Château de Montségur is a former fortress with a rich and tragic history. As the last stronghold of the Cathars, a medieval religious group, it stands as a symbol of resistance and religious persecution. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy panoramic views, and reflect on the events that shaped this historical site.
A brief summary to Château de Montségur
- Montségur, 09300, FR
- +33561010694
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep, 30-minute walk from the parking area to the castle.
- Bring water and sun protection, as there is no water available on the castle site.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the castle's high altitude can lead to unpredictable conditions.
- Visit the archaeological museum in the village of Montségur to learn more about the history of the castle and the Cathars.
Getting There
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Driving
Montségur is located off the D9 road in the Ariège department. From Toulouse, it is approximately a 90-minute drive south. The nearest town is Lavelanet, about 12 kilometers away. Follow the D9 to the parking area at the foot of the pog (the rocky hill upon which the castle sits). Parking is free. From the parking area, it is a 30-35 minute walk up a mountain path to reach the castle. Good walking shoes are recommended.
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Public Transport
Public transportation to Montségur is limited. However, the liO bus line 450 connects Pamiers to Montségur. From larger cities like Paris or Barcelona, you can take a train or bus to Foix or Carcassonne, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Montségur. The bus from Barcelona to Montsegur takes approximately 7h 46m and costs €28 - €45. The bus from Paris to Montsegur takes approximately 14h 11m and costs €50 - €85. From the bus stop in Montségur village, it's approximately a 1.5km walk to the parking area at the foot of the castle. From there, follow the walking directions.
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Walking
From the parking area at the foot of the pog, the ticket office is located on the way to the castle. A mountain path leads to the castle, and the walk takes approximately 30-35 minutes. The path is steep and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. There are no water points or toilets on the site, so bring water.
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