Château de Montségur: A Cathar Stronghold
Explore the dramatic ruins of Château de Montségur, a symbol of Cathar resistance, perched high in the French Pyrenees with breathtaking views.
Perched atop a dramatic mountain peak in the French Pyrenees, the Château de Montségur is a former fortress with a rich and tragic history. Originally rebuilt in 1206, it became a refuge for the Cathars, a religious group persecuted for their beliefs. The castle's ruins stand as a poignant reminder of the Cathar resistance and the siege of 1244, a pivotal event in medieval history.
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 30-minute uphill walk from the parking area to the castle.
- Bring water and sun protection, as the path to the castle is exposed.
- Purchase a combined ticket to access both the castle and the archaeological museum in Montségur village.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions on the mountain can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Château de Montségur, navigate to the village of Montségur via the D117. From Foix, the journey is approximately 40 km. From the D9, a parking area is located at the foot of the 'pog' near a visitor center. Parking is free. From the parking area, a 30-35 minute walk up a mountain path is required to reach the castle. Good walking shoes are recommended.
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Public Transport
While public transport options directly to Montségur are limited, you can take a train or bus to a nearby town like Foix or Lavelanet. From there, local bus connections or a taxi can take you to Montségur. A taxi from Foix or Lavelanet to Montségur will cost approximately €50-€80. Bus tickets from Lavelanet to Montségur are approximately €2-€5.
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Walking
From the village of Montségur, follow the marked trail uphill towards the Château de Montségur. The walk from the village center to the parking area at the foot of the pog takes approximately 20 minutes. From the parking area, the final ascent to the castle via the mountain path takes another 30-35 minutes. Be prepared for a steep and rocky climb.
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