Cathar Castles Aude South France

12th Century Cathare Castles have survived through the ages and bathe in a rare light in different corners of the Aude landscape. Isolated fortresses they stand high in the Pyrenees and can all be reached on foot.

Carcassonne Castle
Magnificent fortified city with 52 towers. UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by Trencavel Viscounts of Carcassonne in the 12th Century. named after Lady Carcass who sounded (sonne) trumpets to alert attack from Charlemagne.

Montsegur
Altitude of 1207m most famous Cathar castle of all. In 1247 210 Cathars chose to be burnt at the foot of 'The Pog' (mount) rather than denounce their faith.

Rennes le Chateau
Discover it's secret. Local priest Berenger Sauniere mysteriously amassed wealth in a tiny Aude village in South France.

Puilaurens Cathar Castle
Altitude of 697m stands on Mont Ardu. Great views of the Viaduct at Lapradelle and Boulzane valley Aude. White Lady's Tower has a communication tube drilled into a wall to talk to the upper floor.

Arques Cathar Castle
Early records date to 1011. Four cornered dungeon is still intact. Outstanding example of Gothic military construction. The village 2km away was burnt by the Spanish in 1546.

Peyreperteuse
Largest ruined Cathar castle 800m alt. Occupied from the start of the 1st century BC. First mentioned in 1070. Owned by Catalan Counts of Barcelona. Finest example of medieval military architecture in Aude.

Queribus Castle
728m alt overlooks Grau de Maury Pass. First mentioned in 1020, last Cathar stronghold to fall. One of the five sons (castles) of Carcassonne built to defend the city. It is said it's full of subterranean passages where wind sweeps through like a long sigh.

Puivert Chateau
Conquered in 1210 by Simon de Montfort. Comprising of old 12th Century and new 14th century architecture. Bruyere family coat of arms is emblessoned above the keep.

Usson
Height of 920m Impressive Cathar fortress in Ariege. Usson museum is informative and displays past relics with interesting film show.