Mirepoix, a small architectural gem of Ariège, enjoys an exceptional position between Foix, Toulouse et Carcassonne always. Rainbow of colors, its sweetness of life does not leave you indifferent.
A story between wars and destruction
Mirepoix knows the fate of the Cathar strongholds of Languedoc. The city was indeed won by Catharism at the end of the XNUMXthnd century, and was taken by Simon de Montfort, representative of the French Catholic Church, in 1209. The fate of the city was played out once again in the XNUMXth century.nd century. It was flooded by a violent flood which killed a large part of the population, while destroying the bastide.
![Vue aérienne de Mirepoix Ariège Pyrénées]()
Aerial view of the town of Mirepoix © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / Marc Mesplié ![Maisons à colombages et couverts de Mirepoix Ariège Pyrénées]()
Half-timbered and covered houses in Mirepoix © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / S.Meurisse
Rebuilt on the opposite bank, Mirepoix then becomes an “old town” rebuilt according to the rigorous and regular plans in force at that time, typical of the bastides.
Unmissable visit to the HEART of the Land of Art and History
Make a stop in the city of Mirepoix during his stay in Ariège is almost essential, for the country house itself, and for all that derives from the Country of Art and History to which it belongs: the Cathar country.
Le Country of the Cathar Pyrenees in Ariège, it is a labeled territory with 30 heritage events during the year, in the heart of 56 municipalities, more than 120 explanatory panels, and educational actions for children ... The promotion of a heritage that is both architectural, geological or still industrial.
The big market of Mirepoix
Not to be missed under any circumstances: the big Monday morning market ! You will enjoy strolling between the stalls, in a friendly and colorful atmosphere. By the way, speaking of gastronomy, do you know how to carve a Mirepoix of vegetables ? This technique comes from us!
Place des cutlery, MAISON des Consuls… Visual gems
The atmosphere of the city is lived on the place of cutlery, which has managed to preserve its medieval appearance, its narrow streets, its colorful houses, and its small canal at the end of the city ... Stroll, observe and suddenly come face to face with the famous House of the Consuls! This superb half-timbered house on wooden galleries is adorned with pieces of wood carved with strange human heads and grimacing monsters…
Sainte-Maurice cathedral
The discovery does not end there, since by turning around, the Sainte-Maurice cathedral looks down on us. This mastodon, whose construction spanned 6 centuries (just that!) Was restored by the famous Eugene Viollet-le-Duc in person (who also restored Notre Dame de Paris or Mont Saint Michel) in the XNUMXth century. It is said to have the largest nave in Europe.
![Vue de Mirepoix depuis les couverts Ariège Pyrénées]()
City of Mirepoix © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / S.Meurisse ![Vitraux de la Cathédrale de Mirepoix Ariège Pyrénées]()
Stained glass windows in Mirepoix Cathedral © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / S.Meurisse
A guided tour not to be missed! ❤️
If you can, attend a visit by Sébastien from the Mirepoix tourist office, who may take you to the top of the cathedral bell tower. From this aerial view, you will understand the regularity of the plans of a country house, and will be dazzled by all the pastel colors of the city.
In short, a friendly and colorful atmosphere!
Mirepoix is, in addition to undeniable architectural riches, a sweetness of life, a place where we stroll, we meet the locals, we take a tour of talented artists (very many), we buy a typical product, we sit on the terrace for a coffee ... in short, where we take the time to live. Quite simply.
![Sous les couverts de Mirepoix Ariège Pyrénées]()
Cutlery from Mirepoix © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / S.Meurisse ![Taille du bois à Mirepoix Ariège Pyrénées]()
Craftsman in Mirepoix © Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme / S.Meurisse
Close to Mirepoix, it is easy to visit the villages of Camon or Roquefort-les-Cascades, the castle of Montségur, Pamiers, or even the Lac de Montbel?
In short, what to do in Mirepoix?
- Go to the market on Monday morning
- Visit the city by strolling under the covers and in the squares
- Observe and admire the Maison des Consuls, the oldest house in the city
- Visit the Saint-Maurice cathedral
- Visit the shops of local artisans in the city
- Take the time to meet and discuss with the locals, the inhabitants called the "Mirapicians"
TO PREPARE YOUR trip to Mirepoix
Find your hotel in Mirepoix, your bed and breakfast, restaurant to prepare your holidays in Mirepoix.
