In France, all the first thing they want to do with the city of romance and love is Paris. But in other cities of this wonderful country there are no less stunning places and monuments of architecture. In this article we will focus on the rest in Perpignan.
What to see in Perpignan?
This city is located on fertile plains, which made it one of the centers of winemaking. Spain also had a big influence on the culture. The main attractions are located near the two main squares of Lozh and Verdun. We begin our excursion with the religious attractions of Perpignan.
The Church of St. Jacob is located in the eastern part of the old city. It was built in 1245. Initially, it was located outside the city walls, later it was integrated into the system of fortifications of the city. Today it is part of a brick bastion, and around the beautiful garden of Miranda is broken. Due to the location on the hill, this place offers a wonderful view of the city. Not so long ago, in 2000, during the archaeological excavations, valuable specimens were found nearby - a complete collection of medieval ceramics. It is from this place that the solemn procession of blood begins on Good Friday.
It is worth paying attention to the Romanesque chapel. In the middle of the north wall there is an entrance. At one time this chapel was part of the first church in the city of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux. The architecture of the building is sustained in Romanesque traditions: the dome is lined around the circumference by small stone blocks, a statue of the Virgin Mary with a baby is installed.
City of Perpignan in France: castles and castles
In the historic center of the city is the palace of the kings of Mallorca. This is the central building in the citadel of the city. His story begins in 1276, just then the King of Mallorca made Perpignan his capital. The residence of the rulers is represented by an ensemble of buildings, a square courtyard. This is a striking example of a fortress palace in the Gothic style. In the complex there are the throne room, the king's chambers, the chapel and the donjon. To this day, they host the music festival of the eastern Pyrenees, the holiday of Ivan Kupala and the guitar festival Radio France.
One of the symbols of the city of Perpignan in France is considered to be the fortress of Castelnu. The name can be translated as "new lock". For the first time it is mentioned in the distant 990. Since then, the building has been repeatedly destroyed and remade. In the late 19th century, this fortress was extensively restored and since then this place has become open to tourists.
The only part of the fortress wall that has survived to this day is the Castille tower. In the Middle Ages near the tower were located the main gate of the city. Now this building is converted into a museum and its doors are open for tourists. There you can see art and crafts.
What to see in Perpignan: places for tourists and residents
After you have walked and satisfied your cultural and spiritual hunger, you can remember about the body. In the city there are many cozy places where you can have lunch and have a wonderful time.
If you want to feel the atmosphere of a French restaurant and try the local cuisine, go to La Table. To talk with locals and taste local home-made wines, visit Le Grain de Folie. Prices there are very democratic, and the cuisine is excellent.
You can relax with your soul and body on the beaches of Perpignan. They are located near the city. The most popular Languedoc, Gruissan, Canet. Along the coast there are oyster farms. It is these places of the sights of Perpignan's sights that will not only satisfy your curiosity and learn new things, but also taste special French oysters with wine.
To visit Perpignan is simple, you just need to have a passport and apply for a visa to France .