Summary of Attractions in Perpignan
For a brief period during the medieval era, Perpignan emerged as a significant European center. This city, located inland from the Mediterranean in Roussillon, served as the capital of the Kingdom of Majorca, resulting in an array of distinctive russet-hued medieval structures crafted from brick.
The historical quarter is laden with remnants from this period, including the Palace of the Kings of Majorca and the imposing Castillet, which regulated traffic into this vital maritime trade hub. Today, Perpignan reflects a Catalan character; the local language is spoken widely, and the architecture, cuisine, and culture reveal a convergence of historical influences.
Let us examine the most notable attractions in Perpignan:
1. Palais des Rois de Majorque
Although the Kingdom of Majorca governed Perpignan for just over 70 years, from 1276 to 1349, its impact on the city is palpable.
The palace is situated on a commanding elevated site to the south of the old city, constructed as the power center for the entire kingdom.
Initiated at the close of the 13th century, it merges Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.
The magnificent Cour d’Honneur courtyard, featuring two levels of galleries, is stunning, as are the chapels and the Grand Hall where the court convened.
Each August, the generous courtyards and gardens host an event that celebrates Perpignan’s Iberian essence: The Guitares au Palais, a three-day event showcasing live performances by flamenco, classical, pop, and jazz musicians.
2. Perpignan Cathedral
This edifice, initiated in the 1300s, only officially became Perpignan’s cathedral in the early 1600s when the ecclesiastical seat was transferred from the nearby town of Elne.
Characteristic of the city’s medieval constructions, it showcases a southern Gothic style, commissioned by King Sancho II of Majorca.
While the exterior is somewhat subdued, the interior is richly adorned, offering numerous details worth observing: the 14th and 15th-century altarpiece, a beautifully crafted organ with painted panels and carvings from 1504, and most notably, the “Dévot Christ” chapel, housing a poignant wooden sculpture of Jesus on the cross from the 1300s.
3. Perpignan Castillet
The city’s most iconic landmark is the sturdy gatehouse that marked the primary entrance to the city from the 1300s onward.
Initially built by the Kingdom of Majorca with bricks and marble, it features large decorative crenellations at its summit.
Upon Perpignan’s transition to French control, Louis XI enhanced the Castillet by adding a turret crowned with a cupola. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was repurposed as a prison.
A museum dedicated to Catalan folk traditions is housed within, and visitors can ascend the 142-step spiral staircase to enjoy panoramic views of Perpignan from the terrace.
4. Hôtel de Ville
Founded in the early 1300s under the directives of King Sancho I, the Hall of the Consuls served as the precursor to Perpignan’s city hall, a venue for municipal assemblies.
The hall boasts an exquisite 15th-century coffered wooden ceiling and remains the centerpiece of the complex, currently utilized for wedding ceremonies.
Subsequently, during the 16th and 17th centuries, a Renaissance-style arcade courtyard and additional administrative structures were constructed.
The courtyard features the bronze sculpture La Méditerranée, created by the renowned artist Aristide Maillol from the 19th and 20th centuries.
5. Loge de Mer
Commissioned by John I of Aragon in the late-14th century, this Gothic civic structure was established to manage maritime commerce; serving initially as the stock exchange and maritime consulate, it was also the focal point of trade in the historic center.
The building underwent expansion under the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in the 16th century, as noted by a plaque dated 1540.
An intriguing feature that signals the Loge de Mer’s former function is the weathervane topped with a model of a historical galleon.
6. Musée des Monnaies et Médailles Joseph Puig
Located on Avenue de Grande Bretagne, the Belle Époque Villa Les Tilleuls, constructed in 1907 and designed by Danish architect Viggo Dorph-Petersen, is noted for its many grand bourgeois residences and châteaux established in the Perpignan area during that era.
Inside is a fascinating collection of coins donated by businessman Joseph Puig. The inventory is so extensive that only a small fraction can be showcased (approximately 2,500 out of 45,000). The majority are of Catalan origin, minted in Barcelona, Valencia, Mallorca, and Perpignan, alongside examples from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
7. Hôtel Pams
Located on Rue Emile Zola, this bourgeois residence was adapted in the late 1890s for the notable politician Jules Pams, who served as Minister of the Interior during World War I.
From the exterior, it may appear unassuming, yet the interior, rear courtyard, and garden are lavishly adorned in art nouveau and art deco styles.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a beautifully illuminated hall featuring a stunning skylight, showcasing a portrait of Madame Jules Pams by the esteemed contemporary painter Jacques-Émile Blanche, along with the impressive “grand escalier” crafted from onyx and stucco.
The tranquil garden features sculptures of the Greek deities Pan and Venus of the Myrtles.
8. Casa Xanxo
A prime example of Catalan Gothic architecture, Casa Xanxo was constructed in the early 16th century for wealthy merchant draper Bernat Xanxo.
As you stroll along Rue de la Main de Fer, the grand marble archivolt entrance and ornate stonework on the façade clearly indicate this was a residence designed to signify affluence.
The frieze above the doorway depicts the struggle between virtue and vice, highlighting the Seven Deadly Sins.
Admission is complimentary, allowing exploration of the old warehouses and vaulted cellar used for textile storage.
The ceremonial room on the first floor features meticulously crafted wood paneling and a coffered ceiling.
9. Fort de Salses
Located a few kilometers north of the city, this area once delineated the boundary between Spain and France, infamous for intense battles and sieges.
The Spanish-constructed Fort de Salses, commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs at the end of the 15th century, experienced many of these conflicts.
Renowned for its military architecture, the fort features walls that are 10 meters thick and a complex system of scarps, bastions, and corner towers, all encircled by a moat, capable of withstanding prolonged sieges.
Under siege before completion, the fort remained a pivotal stronghold until its incorporation into France following the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659.
10. Torreilles Plage Argeles
For those seeking relaxation by the Mediterranean, two of the top beaches in Languedoc-Roussillon are located less than 20 kilometers away.
Starting from the south, Argelès offers an expansive stretch of soft white sand that seems limitless.
This beach is highly regarded as one of the best in France, especially for those desiring tranquility, as its northern parts are bordered solely by pine forests.
Just a few minutes northeast lies Torreilles, which also boasts a lengthy, straight expanse of white sand.
Torreilles, while peaceful, provides a selection of beachfront restaurants and bars where sun loungers can be rented.
11. Castelnou
Not only is Castelnou included in France’s esteemed list of “most beautiful villages,” but in 2015, it was also ranked as the country’s seventh-favorite village. This rustic hillside community features charming stone houses arranged around a network of narrow alleys accessed through a medieval gateway.
Take note of the walls of these residences, as several are embedded with semi-circular medieval bread ovens.
Perched atop a daunting ridge is the Vicomtal Castle, established in the 900s and later governed by the Kingdom of Majorca in the 15th century.
12. Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt
Located just outside Ille-sur-Têt, this remarkable natural rock formation features pillars of rock known as “orgues,” reminiscent of a miniature version of Turkey’s Cappadocia or the U.S.’s Bryce Canyon.
Composed of limestone, these columns have been sculpted by four million years of erosion, resulting in uniquely gnarled surfaces streaked with yellow and white.
Visitors can wander through the valley to experience these otherworldly pillars up close or enjoy a panoramic view along the route from Ille-sur-Têt to Montalba.
13. Céret
Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Céret is a picturesque town boasting a modern art museum that would be a point of pride for a much larger city.
The museum showcases works by renowned artists such as Matisse, Chagall, Soutine, and Herbin, featuring numerous impressionist pieces and encapsulating the essence of fauvism.
The town’s artistic legacy traces back to the cubist movement, attracting luminaries like Picasso, Braque, Masson, Juan Gris, and Max Jacob, who formed a vibrant artistic community leading up to the war.
14. USA Perpignan
As is typical throughout southwestern France, rugby is the local sporting passion.
Currently, Perpignan’s illustrious rugby team, established in 1902, is navigating a challenging period.
After decades in the premier Top 14, USA Perpignan now competes in the second tier, Rugby Pro D2. Nevertheless, support remains strong, with the 15,000-seat Stade Aimé Giral often reaching near-capacity crowds from August to May, showcasing vibrant Catalan pride.
USA Perpignan boasts more fan clubs than any rugby team in France and is widely recognized for “La Bronca,” a chant that resonates as the opposition enters the field.
15. Cuisine
In keeping with its rich cultural heritage, Perpignan’s culinary offerings are deeply influenced by Catalan traditions.
Many local restaurants feature paella and other rice dishes infused with saffron.
For adventurous diners, a unique delicacy to explore is cargols à la llauna, snails that are baked or grilled, typically served with aioli or vinaigrette.
If this culinary experience intrigues you, consider visiting L’Escargot de Roussillon located in Place de la République, a specialty shop dedicated to fresh snails and the herbs required for their preparation.
