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Royal Castle of Collioure: A Coastal Fortress Through the Ages

Explore centuries of history at Collioure's Royal Castle, a majestic fortress offering stunning views of the Mediterranean coast.

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The Royal Castle of Collioure, a historic monument dating back to the 7th century, stands proudly on the Mediterranean coast. It has served as a strategic fortress, royal residence, and even a prison, witnessing centuries of French and Spanish conflict. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic coastal views.

A brief summary to Royal Castle of Collioure

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to delve deeper into the castle's history and learn about its various transformations.
  • Climb to the ramparts for panoramic views of Collioure, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains.
  • Check the castle's event calendar for concerts, exhibitions, and festivals held throughout the year.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Royal Castle is centrally located in Collioure, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From the Collioure train station, it's approximately a 10-minute walk. Head towards the harbor and follow the signs. The castle is situated on the Quai de l'Amirauté, adjacent to the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges. No costs are involved when walking.

  • Public Transport

    Collioure is served by the Lio bus network. Several bus lines stop near the city center, a short walk from the castle. Check the local bus schedule for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare is approximately €1.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in Collioure can be challenging, especially during peak season. Several paid parking lots are available around the town, including Parking Le Glacis. Daily parking rates are around €15. From the parking lots, follow the signs to the city center and the Royal Castle. Be aware that the main street is closed to traffic on Wednesday and Sunday mornings for the local market.

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Discover more about Royal Castle of Collioure

The Royal Castle of Collioure, or Château Royal de Collioure, is a magnificent structure steeped in history, dominating the harbor of the charming coastal town of Collioure. Its origins trace back to a Roman castrum, with the first documented fortification appearing in 673. Over the centuries, it has been shaped by various rulers, including the Visigoths, Kings of Aragon, Kings of Majorca, and the Spanish Habsburgs, each leaving their mark on its architecture and strategic importance. From 1276 to 1344, the castle served as a summer residence for the Kings of Majorca, contributing to its renovation and splendor. The castle's strategic location made it a key point of contention between France and Spain, particularly in the 17th century. In 1642, French troops besieged Collioure, leading to the Spanish surrender. The castle officially became French in 1659 with the Treaty of the Pyrenees. The renowned military engineer Vauban further fortified the castle, adding bastions and reinforcing its structure. In the 20th century, the castle took on a different role, serving as a prison in 1939 for Spanish refugees fleeing the Spanish Civil War. It later held French detainees under the Vichy regime. Classified as a historical monument in 1922, the castle is now a prominent cultural venue, hosting exhibitions, festivals, and guided tours. Visitors can explore its ramparts, royal apartments, and the Retirada exhibition, while enjoying breathtaking 360° views of Collioure and the Vermillion Coast.

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