This magnificent mediaeval village, which is listed among the “most beautiful Villages of France”, is one of the most remarkable, must-see places in Catalonia. Nestled at the foot of the Aspres, Castelnou seems to be a place that time forgot after being the capital of the Viscount of Vallespir for over three centuries.

The village still looks as it did in mediaeval times, with its ramparts punctuated with 8 towers and four gates placed at the four points of the compass, its watchtower and its chateau. The latter was built in 990 by the Lord of Castelnou to serve as an administrative and military base for the Viscount of Vallespir.

The 13^th century Romanesque Parish Church of Santa Maria Del Mercadal was built outside the village walls.

As you stroll through the cobbled streets you will see artists, artisans and vestiges of the past such as cannonballs, Genoese cornices decorated with limewash, bread ovens and numerous elements in wrought iron