Château de Quillan

Quillan, France

Château de Quillan was first mentioned in 1125. There had been a fort built by Visigoths already in 781 AD. The castle was conquered by the Royal army of France in 1210 during the Albigensian Crusades. The castle got its current appearance in restorations of 1232 and 1341. Since then Quillan castle has been damaged in wars by Spanish Armies and Huguenots (1575).

Since the 18th century Château de Quillan was left to decay and dismantled. Today still the impressive ruins remain overlooking the village.

Address

Rampe du Château 11, Quillan, France

See all sites in Quillan

Details

Founded: 1232
Category: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)

Rating

3.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne (39,6 km)
Cháteau Comtal (39,7 km)
Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus (39,5 km)
Villefranche-de-Conflent Fortress (35,2 km)
St. Mary Magdalene Church (8,6 km)
Mirepoix Cathedral (34,7 km)
Château de Peyrepertuse (30 km)
Saint-Hilaire Abbey (26,2 km)
Alet Cathedral Ruins (14,6 km)

User Reviews

Jenna Durrant (2 years ago)
This is not the most maintained historic building we have ever seen....but... It's a short walk from centre Quillan, has a gorgeous view And space to have a picnic on the steps. It's free entry, pets can visit with you.

Vincent Oliver (2 years ago)
Small and simple stone walls. Nice thing is that it's a very easy short walk from the town. Nice views over the rooftops.

Christian Olivares (3 years ago)
Not the most interesting castle in the region, but still worth a visit, if you're already in Quillan

Tassilo Kubitz (3 years ago)
The castle is in ruins. Not much has been preserved, but the view over the city from up here is magnificent. In addition, here is the beginning of the hiking routes to the Massif de Bitrague.

Clifford Stanton (4 years ago)
I only walked past this place, so, quite honestly I can't say what it is like.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Photo from Flickr, copyright caminanteK

Historic Site of the week

Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.