A major historic site
The main body of the building is made of brick and Baixas marble, dating back to Aragonese times. It was built from 1368 onwards, then transformed under Louis XI, who added the present terrace and brick turret crowned with a cupola. The Porte Notre-Dame was built at the same time. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the site was transformed into a prison. Today, it houses the Casa Pairal museum, which tells the story of the town's history and local traditions.
A flame is kept inside the Castillet all year round, and is taken up to the peak of Canigó to be regenerated, as tradition dictates. It is then taken down to all the villages to light the Midsummer fires.
The highlight of this monument is undoubtedly its summit, which offers a 360-degree view of the city center and beyond. But to get there, you have to climb 142 steps!
Exhibitions and events
On the second floor, you'll find a permanent collection on the city's history. The upper floors are dedicated to temporary exhibitions. Until June 2027, you'll find the "Culture et traditions populaires en Roussillon" exhibition: giants, correfocs and capgrossos populate traditional Catalan festivals and ceremonies. Through this exhibition, Casa Pairal invites you to discover or join in the festive rounds led by the Jotglars, traditional musicians, or the cobles in the shade of the plane trees.
At the foot of the Castillet, you'll find some of the highlights of the year, such as the stage for the Fête de la Musique, Saint-Jean, the sound and light show for the Soirées Rayonnantes, the Christmas Ferris wheel, not forgetting the giant screens for sporting events such as the Usap and Dragons finals. The Place de la Victoire is a major landmark in the hearts of Perpignan residents and visitors alike.
Good plans
to visit the Castillet!
The Castillet and its museum are free on the first Sunday of every month. They are permanently free for people under 26, on presentation of proof of identity.
If you're looking for an unusual way to visit the museum, we'd like to invite you to the European Museum Night, usually held in May. This is one of the few opportunities to watch the sun set from the panoramic tower on the monument's top floor.
