Villefranche de Conflent

At the western gateway to the Conflent, 6km west of Prades stands one of the “most beautiful villages of France” - Villefranche-de-Conflent. It was founded in 1092 by the counts of Cerdagne to stop Moorish invaders and later strengthened in the seventeenth century by Vauban, the highly influential military engineer to consolidate France’s borders.

What is most intriguing about Villefranche de Conflent is that time has stood still ever since. The streets and fortifications have remained untouched by further development and the town remains tightly packed within the original castle walls. The narrow restored streets give you a glimpse into times past but with the modern advantage of a number of pavement cafes in which to enjoy a cooling drink.

Vauban (1633 – 1707) was a Marshal of France and the foremost military engineer of his age, famed for his skill in designing fortifications as well as breaking through them. He was an adviser to Louis XIV on how to consolidate France's borders and it was he who made the radical suggestion of giving up indefensible land to create a stronger, less porous border with France's neighbours.

Between 1667 and 1707, Vauban upgraded the fortifications of around 300 cities. At Villefranche de Conflent he improved the fortifications of the town and in 1681 had an additional line of defence built to protect the walled city from aerial bombardment. This fortress, called Liberia overlooks the town and is accessed by an underground 734 step staircase. It is worth the gruelling climb for the magnificent panoramic views but a gentler trail or 4X4 taxi can drive you up in comfort should you prefer.

Also worth visiting is the 12th century church of St-Jacques, with a primitively carved thirteenth-century baptismal font just inside the door and be sure to take the walk along the maze like ramparts surrounding the town.

Nearby you will also find a number of caves to explore including the Grottes des Canalettes, known as the Underground Versailles of the Pyrenees and Villefranche-de-Conflent also serves as the starting point for “le Petit Train Jaune”. The famous little yellow train takes passengers on a spectacular journey up into the Pyrenees with breathtaking scenery along the way.

Contact Villefranche de Conflent:

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Address :	66500 Villefranche de Conflent
Telephone :	+33 (0)468 961078
Fax :	+33 (0)468 962393