Perpignan in France is a historic and attractive city, known for its 14th-century gateway tower known as Le Castillet (or little castle) and its extension, Grand Castillet, which houses Casa Pairal museum that showcases Catalan culture and history. The structure was certified a historic monument in 1889 and is now considered to be the symbol of Perpignan. Built in 1368 on the orders of King Pierre IV of Aragon, Le Castillet has undergone a number of architectural renovations over the years. It is entirely built of red-colored bricks made in Roussillon. The building offers panoramic views over the city. Read up on the history of the area on the official tourism website of Perpignan, and then head over to the official Casa Pairal website for more information. Also, here’s a guide to Le Castillet, Perpignan, to help you further.
Things to do / Highlights
History in brief
Le Castillet was built during the reign of Pierre IV of Aragon in 1368 as a city gate for the city of Perpignan. Perpignan is the last town before the Spanish border and features Catalan influences. The red bricks of Le Castillet were made in Rousillon and add an attractive color to the building. Le Castillet was classified as a historic monument in 1889 and plays a unifying role for the people of Perpignan, where the flame of Saint John is preserved. The building is also used as a gathering place for major events in the city. It houses Casa Pairal, a museum of Catalan history and culture. Below are the major attractions of Le Castillet and Casa Pairal.
The Square
In front of Le Castillet is a pretty square—Place de Verdun, which features sculptures and attractive flowerbeds.
The Keep
Accessed by climbing 142 steps, The Keep offers spectacular views over the city of Perpignan and Canigou, perfect for panoramic photos of the area. The Keep overlooks Place de la Victoire in the city, and its two towers are crowned by fascinating high crenelles and machicolations.
Notre-Dame Door
Notre-Dame Door was built at the same time as Le Castillet and was transformed into a prison in the 17th and 18th centuries. Nowadays, this part of the site houses Casa Pairal museum.
Casa Pairal museum
Located on the second floor of the larger building, Grand Castillet, Casa Pairal is a museum dedicated to the history of the Catalan culture, with many fascinating collections on display. Perpignan has a rich cultural history, which can be seen from the architectural achievements in the area, including Kingdom of Majorca and Treaty of the Pyrenees. The museum is indeed well worth a visit, as it also displays beautiful lace mantillas and traditional Catalan bonnets as well as a full 17th-century kitchen.
Bilingual texts
The exhibition covers three rooms in Casa Pairal and includes bilingual texts (in French and Catalan) as well as numerous illustrations from the various museums of the city. The content covers the tumultuous history of the area and the many conquests and kingdoms involved in its past.
Travelers tips
Wheelchair access
Regrettably, due to the nature and age of the structure, there is no wheelchair access to Le Castillet, Grand Castillet, and Casa Pairal.
Pets
No animals are allowed in the complex. However, exceptions can be made for service dogs. Do approach a staff member for assistance regarding this.
Ticket payment
No credit cards are taken for payment on entry to Le Castillet. Only bank or post office checks and cash are acceptable.
Free entry
While the regular entry fee of 2 USD applies when visiting the building, free entry is available on the first Sunday of every month. Also, kids and students can always enter free of charge. Just bring a valid ID to show at the door. Note that Le Castillet and Casa Pairal are closed on public holidays, including January 1, Easter Monday, May 1, and December 25.
How to get there
On foot
Le Castillet is only a 1.5-km (0.9-mi) walk from downtown Perpignan via Avenue des Baleares and takes approximately 18 minutes—just enough to give you a bit of exercise without tiring you down.
By car
The fastest route from downtown Perpignan is via Boulevard Félix Mercader, which is a 1.6-km (1-mi) distance and takes approximately six minutes.
Parking
The closest street for parking to Le Castillet is Cours François Palmarole. If no parking can be found on the street, there are several Q-Park garages in the area, including Clémenceau, Wilson, or République.
By public transport
Le Castillet can be reached by catching nos. 2, 6, 12, 13, 14, 15 A and C buses from the bus station in Place Peri.
Uber and Lyft
Uber can be used in Perpignan by simply downloading the app. Lyft, Ola, and Didi are other rideshare apps that are also available in the city.
Le Castillet information
Le Castillet
Address: Place de Verdun, Perpignan, France
Opening hours: 10:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
Official website: Casa Pairal
Department of tourism: Perpignan Tourism
History
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