The castles and châteaux 

There are many castles and châteaux in our region, often two or three per village. All are distinct, having been built for very different purposes and periods, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

The first castles, like in Salles sur l’Hers or St Papoul with the Ferrals castle, were fortresses with all the architectural elements of defence such as machicolations, arrowslits, turrets, etc.

From the 15th century, the châteaux began to emerge, evidence of the wealth of the traders. Artillery having been developed, they can be recognised by their openings for canons. In Montmaur and Belflou, you can see magnificent examples.

The last examples are the châteaux from the 17th to the 19th centuries, which no longer have a concern for defence and are majestic residences, often with a dovecote. The Château de Labécède Lauragais is a perfect illustration of this type of building.