We Follow The Singular Cathar Route Through The South Of France

The Languedoc region is the cradle of the Cathar religion. Castles and towns surrendered to this religious fervor considered heretical by the Rome of the Middle Ages, for which they were persecuted until their disappearance. Fortunately, there are still some vestiges that can embark the visitor on an adventure into the past through the  Cathar Route.

This route includes towers, castles on steep cliffs, abbey villages and landscapes that made up the former territories of the Cathar heresy. Although many are in ruins, most are open to visitors. As we mentioned, they are located in the Languedoc-Roussillon-Midi-Pyrénées region, in the south of France, and is known as the “Cathar country”.

The best of the Cathar Route

1. Carcassonne

It is a medieval citadel that was an important nucleus of Cathar life, until its disappearance after the Albigensian crusade. Carcassonne has a great history and was rebuilt by the French monarchs to repair the damage left by the constant attacks it suffered during the Albigensian crusade.

This fairytale citadel is perfect to be explored on foot. It is worth exploring to discover its many places full of history and imagine knights, maidens and medieval wars. It has 26 towers, loopholes, high towers, the count’s apartments and a castle within the castle.

From outside the city you can see all of Carcassonne as a wonderful picture, definitely views that you cannot miss. In addition, feel its medieval air in its cafes, buying a souvenir in its traditional stores or enjoying a good meal in one of its restaurants.

2. Mirepoix

This is a small but charming medieval village that, in addition to being part of the Cathar Route, is also included in the Route des Bastides, a circuit that runs through some twelve fortified citadels. It is very close to Carcassonne and although it can be traveled in a short time, you will love what there is.

You cannot miss its beautiful arcaded square and its impressive cathedral, large although with only one nave. Also, you can get lost among its small shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and much more.

3. Minerve

The Cathar city of Minerve sits atop a mound eroded by the Cesse and Brian rivers. This truly spectacular situation gives visitors fantastic views, who do not hesitate to take panoramic views that capture its beauty.

This medieval village seems to be carved in stone in the middle of a great vegetation, olive trees and vineyards. A must-see are  the Romanesque church of Saint-Étienne or the Heurepel Museum dedicated to Catharism. Nor can you miss the medieval wall and visit the Paloma de la Luz sculpture, which recalls the 140 Cathars that were burned in 1210.

4. The castles of Lastours

The castles of Lastours are three Cathar towers plus a fourth built centuries later by the King of France. Their names are Cabaret, Tour Regine, Surdespine and Quetinheux. The ruins of these four fortifications are crowning the Black Mountain, as if they were eagles’ nests that dominate everything at their feet.

The three oldest castles were built by the Cabaret lords, the main castle being named after them. Followers of the Cathar religion settled around these fortifications, making this place one of the greatest Cathar symbols in France.

5. Castle of Montségur

This castle is located on top of a rocky cliff at an altitude of 1200 meters in Ariège. It is considered the most symbolic castle of the “Cathar country”, as it was the last bastion of resistance against the repression of Pope Innocent III.

To get there, you have to take a walk of about 20 minutes, but the effort is worth it, because the views are truly wonderful. Currently, its location and rumors of an eventual treasure attract thousands of visitors.

6. Albi

We finish our tour of the Cathar Route in an episcopal city. Albi is located in the Midi-Pyrenées region and its  Cathar past gave rise to historical events and interesting places that are worth visiting.

Among its many places,  you cannot miss the Saint-Cécile Cathedral, with its southern Gothic style and built entirely in red brick. It has a large collection of Renaissance paintings and a 78-meter high bell tower.

Another must-see is the Palais de la Berbie, now the Toulouse Lautrec Museum. It is a 13th century castle, one of the oldest in France, but also one of the best preserved. It has a collection of more than 1,000 works by Lautrec, including his famous posters for the Moulin Rouge.