The Château de Foix
The Château de Foix - a castle of surprises and thrills !
Before even entering the town, the imposing stature of the castle catches your eye, perched on a rock overlooking the town. This emblematic medieval building, one of the Grand Sites of the Midi-Pyrénées region, is a symbol of wealth and power and visiting it is a sensational experience.
The Château de Foix with its imposing walls and three towers which have withstood wars and the test of time is impressively and perfectly preserved. But don’t just admire the view, follow the guide on a journey back in time ! Discover the work of medieval builders, the architecture of this impregnable fortress and how the Comtes de Foix lived, including the most illustrious among them, Gaston Fébus, author of the “Livre de la Chasse”, a 14th century hunting manuscript. The different rooms of the castle are devoted to exhibitions about its construction, Gaston Fébus and the world of the last Comte de Foix, Henri IV, King of France, as well as displaying collections of the Musée Départemental de l’Ariège.
Soak up the atmosphere of power, reinforced by the staggering height of the towers, and admire the magnificent open views of Ariège and the Pyrenees. The castle has had many « lives » which accounts for its longevity, including a seigniorial residence, barracks, prison and museum ! Walk along the ramparts between the towers, arrow slits and machicolations and discover the symbols of their power – it will take your breath away ! Twice a year, the castle comes to life during its Medieval Days when visitors are plunged right back into the heart of the Middle Ages.