Visit to the Cathar castle of Puilaurens

Geographical Situation and Historical Role

The castle of Puilaurens is located in the Occitanie region in the south of the Aude department, bordering the departments of Pyrénées-Orientales to the south, Ariège to the west, Haute-Garonne to the northwest, Tarn to the north and Hérault to the northeast.

The fortress of Puilaurens played a major role in defending the former border with the Kingdom of Aragon.

The castle consists of two adjoining enclosures: the first is organized around a large courtyard, while the second, smaller one includes a quadrangular “keep.”

The whole structure is defended by four round towers. The imposing walls of Puilaurens are particularly notable for the remains of its wall-walk and crenellations.

Around the original Romanesque “keep,” additional “French” buildings dated to the 13th century were added. The castle suffered repeated Spanish incursions until the Treaty of the Pyrenees (1659).

Puilaurens and the Cathar Epic

The first known castellan of Puilaurens, Pierre Catala, witnessed the submission of Guillaume de Peyrepertuse to Simon de Montfort. Twelve years later, Guillaume de Peyrepertuse was in command of the stronghold. Puilaurens was later held by Roger Catala, who, like his predecessor, sheltered many Cathars. In 1241, the Cathar deacon of Fenouillèdes, Pierre Paraire, stayed there, and around 1245–1246 several perfects were hosted there.

In 1255, Saint Louis ordered the seneschal of Carcassonne to fortify the castle. Defending the border with Aragon, it was occupied in 1259 by the largest garrison on the entire frontier, under the command of Odon de Montreuil.

Self-guided Tour of the Castle

The visit begins with the discovery of the botanical path that winds up to the foot of the fortress: panels and a glossary present plants and shrubs typical of the region. This path continues through a series of fortified chicanes preceded by a barbican. The panoramic view is magnificent.

Panels displayed within the castle complete the explanations of the cultural guidebook given to you at the entrance.

Guided Tour of the Castle

A unique experience awaits you as you discover a major heritage site: the castle of Puilaurens. A defensive military fortress from the 13th century, its architecture offers an exceptional example of royal construction adapted to mountainous terrain.

Guided tours of the castle of Puilaurens are available in French, English and Spanish.