Photos

This is the small village Castelnou, on the list of the most beautiful villages in France, orgin back as far as the Xth siecle.

From this fine pov you can see how they placed the village in the landscape (btw the mountain at upper right is the holy Catalan mountain Canigou) just by the foot of the hill with castle at top.

At the time they started build the castle, no commuters was around only craftsmen and others in the market for a job - and only option was to live near the new castle. Establish themself as 'suppliers' to all needs connected with the castle - and of course establish a village to live in..

Then... for the next 1.000 years, beside building up the castles the times it was demolished - the citizens of Castelnou seems to be perfectly satisfied with their little village and made only small changes to it
- which today pleases tens of thousands visitors within each season.

This shot from an offseason wednesday in May with only some 10-12 visitors strolling around.

More of the medival village Castelnou
Castelnou is a most remarkable village in Catalonia – the French region Langedouc – Rousillion, close to Thuir and Perpignan. Founded in the X ème century it seems to be forgotten by time. Still it was the capital of vicomté of Vallespir during more than three centuries.

The viscontal Castle was built towards 988-990 the village preserves the medieval appearance of its ramparts rhythm’s by 8 turns and 4 gates.

The Romance parish church from the XII century outside the village it is dedicated to Santa Maria del Mercadal.

There are the two principal axes of the village, with small lanes and staircase which allow the passage of the one to the other. Take a stroll, with the nose in the air, to notice the decorated facades of the small houses. Craftsmen, artists and restorers seems motivated to keep the authentic environment in the village – also today.