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Château de Montségur: A Cathar Stronghold

Explore the ruins of Château de Montségur, a medieval fortress and poignant symbol of Cathar history, high in the French Pyrenees.

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Perched atop a rocky peak in the French Pyrenees, Château de Montségur is a former fortress with a rich and tragic history. Known as the last stronghold of the Cathars, a religious group persecuted for their beliefs, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into medieval times and breathtaking panoramic views.

A brief summary to Château de Montségur

  • 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 climb from the parking area to the castle.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as there is no water available on the castle site.
  • Visit the archaeological museum in the village to learn more about the castle's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking area at the foot of the pog, follow the marked trail uphill to the castle entrance. The walk is steep and takes approximately 30 minutes. Good walking shoes are essential. The ticket office is located on the way to the castle, not in the parking area.

  • Public Transport

    From larger cities like Toulouse or Carcassonne, take a train to Foix or Lavelanet. From there, local buses or taxis are available to reach Montségur. The 450 liO bus service connects Pamiers to Montségur, with a stop at the château. From the village of Montségur, it's a 30-minute walk uphill to the castle.

  • Parking

    Free and unlimited parking is available at the foot of Montségur castle, with designated spaces for buses. The parking lot is unattended. From the parking area, it is a 30-minute walk to reach the castle.

Unlock the Best of Château de Montségur

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Discover more about Château de Montségur

Château de Montségur, located in the Ariège department of southern France, is a site of immense historical and cultural significance. The castle's ruins stand at an altitude of 1,207 meters on a rocky formation known as a pog, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Originally built in the early 13th century, Montségur became a refuge for the Cathars, who were fleeing persecution by the Catholic Church. In 1244, after a long siege, the castle fell to the Crusaders, and over 200 Cathars were burned at the stake for refusing to renounce their faith. Today, Montségur stands as a symbol of Cathar resistance and a memorial to their tragic fate. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, which include the remains of the keep, walls, and living quarters. A museum in the nearby village of Montségur houses archaeological artifacts and provides historical context. The climb to the castle is steep and requires good walking shoes, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.

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