Puycelsi overlooks the valley of the Vère and the majestic national forest of La Grésigne. It has managed to resist the ravages of time and the Albigensian crusade and has undergone a magnificent renaissance to delight visitors.
Prehistoric times, Celtic settlement, Roman occupation, Puycelsi has a millennia-long history which has left a few traces, in particular a Roman road and a number of oppida (settlements) in the nearby forest of Grésigne. In the Middle Ages the village belonged to the Counts of Toulouse who fortified it and turned it into a bastion to resist attack by both Simon and Amaury de Montfort. These defensive elements can be seen in the architecture of the village: it has 800-metre long ramparts, parapets and watchtowers surrounding the Idrissou gate.
After its long slumbers, in the 1960s work was begun in the village to restore some of its typical houses and ancient buildings so that today Puycelsi lives again! Cafés, restaurants, artists and craftsmen are moving in and restoring the soul of the village whilst preserving its unique setting.
A visit to Puycelsi also means you can enjoy the splendid natural surroundings. The valley of the Vère and the national forest of Grésigne are a perfect playground for anyone who enjoys countryside walks.
Puycelsi has quite a story to tell.
Not to be missed
- Walking in and around the village - www.puycelsi.fr
- Puycelsi Festival from 23 to 31 July - www.puycelsi.fr
- The Heritage Footpath - www.puycelsi.fr
- Walks in the Grésigne Forest - www.puycelsi.fr
Puycelsi on the map
Our idea for a holiday in Puycelsi
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 Once more to the bastides and fortified villages!Travel back to the days of gentle knights, noble ladies, courts of love and Cathars. Book your break and don’t delay in exploring these architectural wonders...Select and book your three or four-star hotel online BOOK ONLINE |
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