Château de Termes Travel Guide

Château de Termes, a ruined castle near the village of Termes in the Aude department of France, stands as a testament to the region's turbulent past. As one of the famed 'Cathar castles,' it occupies a strategic hilltop location, offering commanding views of the wild valley and the Termenet gorges.Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was held by Raymond de Termes, who sided with the Cathars during the Albigensian Crusade. In 1210, Simon de Montfort besieged the castle for months. The castle eventually fell, becoming royal property in 1228. It was rebuilt in the 13th century as a royal garrison, one of the 'Sons of Carcassonne'. Its defensive role diminished after the border with Spain shifted in the 17th century. The castle was later deliberately destroyed to stop brigands from using it as a base.Today, visitors can explore the ruins, taking in the panoramic views and learning about the castle's history through exhibits and a short film at the visitor center. A 15-minute walk from the village leads to the castle site.