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Royal Castle of Collioure: A Coastal Fortress with Centuries of History

Explore the Royal Castle of Collioure: a historic fortress offering stunning views and a journey through centuries of French and Spanish history.

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The Royal Castle of Collioure, a historic monument of France, stands majestically on the waterfront of Collioure. With origins dating back to the 7th century, it has served as a residence for kings, a strategic military point, and even a prison, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.

A brief summary to Royal Castle of Collioure

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle involves a lot of walking and climbing.
  • Check for special events or exhibitions happening at the castle before your visit.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours available to gain deeper insights into the castle's history.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of Collioure, known for its art galleries and seafood restaurants.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Royal Castle of Collioure is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the town of Collioure. Head towards the waterfront and follow the signs to Quai de l'Amirauté. The castle is a prominent feature along the coast and should be visible as you approach the waterfront. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train or bus at the Collioure station, walk towards the town center and waterfront, following signs for the Château Royal. The walk from the train station is approximately 15 minutes. From the bus station, the walk to the castle is about 10 minutes. Bus line 18 connects Perpignan to Collioure. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Shuttle

    From April to October, a shuttle boat connects Port-Vendres to Collioure, dropping passengers off near the Royal Castle. The boat ride offers scenic views of the coastline. A one-way trip costs approximately €8.

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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 picturesque town of Collioure. Its story stretches back to Roman times, with the first mention of a fortified site appearing in 673. Over the centuries, it has been shaped by various rulers, including the Counts of Roussillon, the Kings of Aragon and Majorca, and the Spanish Habsburgs. Between 1276 and 1344, the castle served as a summer residence for the Kings of Majorca, who renovated it extensively. In the 16th century, Charles Quint and his son Philip II transformed the castle into a modern fortress. Collioure's strategic importance led to frequent conflicts between France and Spain, with the castle changing hands several times. In 1642, French troops besieged Collioure, leading to the Spanish surrender. The castle definitively passed into French hands in 1659, after which the military engineer Vauban reinforced its structure. In the 20th century, the castle served as a prison in 1939, initially housing Spanish refugees fleeing the Spanish Civil War. Later, it held French detainees under the Vichy regime. Today, the Royal Castle is a listed historical monument, offering guided tours and exhibitions that showcase its rich past. Visitors can explore the royal apartments, rampart walks, and immersive exhibits, enjoying panoramic views of Collioure and the Mediterranean Sea. The castle also hosts cultural events throughout the year, blending historical heritage with contemporary vibrancy.

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