Mont-Louis
MONT-LOUIS
At 1600m above sea level, Mont Louis is the highest fortified town in France and lies at the gateway to the Cerdagne. In July 2008, this commune, along with another 12 of Vauban’s fortified towns, joined UNESCO’s world Heritage List. In 1679, military engineer Vauban, designed Mont Louis upon orders from King Louis XIV in order to protect France’s newly annexed territory from Spain. It is a magnificent example of 17th century military architecture and has served its original purpose as a National Commando Training Unit since 1964. Le Puits des Forçats (the Forçats well) is a unique and original piece of architecture which can be found within the compound. This immense wheel has supplied water throughout the garrison since the end of the 2nd world war and shelters the first ever solar furnace, which made way for the research and development of a new type of energy which found an innovative industrial and scientific future with the construction of the giant solar furnace at Odeillo, managed by a team of government scientists (CNRS). A stroll through the fortified town will take you past the listed ramparts and church, but the more remarkable buildings are to be found within the military zone which is not accessible without a tourist office guide.
Outside the town walls, take the “oiseaux & insects” (birds and insects) walk to discover and observe the various species of our region.
WE RECOMMEND: A Tourist Office’s guided tour is highly recommended (and necessary) in order to visit the most interesting area of this fortified town.
guided tours arranged by the Tourist Office
Guided Tour " Storming of the Citadel "
Guided tour of the town "Mont-Louis over the centuries"
For more information phone number : 04 68 04 21 97 or please visit www.mont-louis.net
