Mirepoix

Medieval

Classified as a “Grand Site d’Occitanie”, the charming bastide town of Mirepoix is warm and welcoming and a pleasure to live in all year round: the town’s calendar is packed with events all year round, from concerts in July to flower and tree markets, flea markets and seasonal festivals. An emblematic center of the Cathar Pyrenees, the beautiful bastide town of Mirepoix has been awarded the Pays d’Art et d’Histoire label.

Getting there

©Mirepoix Ariege Pyrenees Ariege Pyrenees Tourism Marc Mesplie|Stéphane Meurisse - Ariège Pyrénées Tourisme

History of exchanges

Since the IIᵉ century BC, close to the river, Mirepoix was a perfect place for trade and exchange. This is probably where the first market was concentrated. From the XIᵉ century onwards, it came under the protective wing of the castle. Rebuilt after the deadly flood of 1289, it follows the regular plans of our Occitan bastides. The square has retained its original medieval structure. The XVᵉ century cutlery and superb half-timbered houses on wooden galleries invite you to stroll and discover. All the charm of a medieval town with a southern flair!

Life in the present

A lively and attractive town, Mirepoix offers a wide range of events from April to November (medieval festivals, puppet festival, pottery market, apple festival…).

Not to be missed: the big Monday morning market! You’ll love strolling between the stalls in a friendly, colorful atmosphere. And what could be nicer than stopping for a drink?

Gothicand southern

Open the door to the cathedral… You’ll be astounded by its vast nave, 22 m wide, testimony to a typically southern Gothic style. With such proportions, it is the second largest single-nave church in Europe. A feat that dates back to 1298 and continues to dazzle us with its sense of grandeur.

With a guide

Mirepoix is famous for its Maison des Consuls, adorned with carved woodwork, but above all for its Cathedral of Saint Maurice, a listed historic monument. Guided tours for groups all year round, and for individuals in July and August.

Visite guidée de Mirepoix

Visiter Mirepoix, c’est remonter le temps ! Cette ville libre au passé glorieux porte bien son âge : sept siècles vous contemplent depuis ses façades à colombages…...

All tours

Events in Mirepoix

Festive city

The city of Mirepoix offers a wide range of attractive events from April to November (medieval festivals, puppet festival, pottery market, apple festival…). Not to be missed: the big Monday morning market! You’ll love strolling between the stalls in a friendly, colorful atmosphere.

My little happiness: a break on the terrace

When the weather’s fine, I like to settle down for a drink with friends on a terrace under the roofs of Mirepoix’s main square. I find it a charming place, and depending on the sun’s exposure, you can admire the superb colors of the half-timbered houses, which gives that little extra something to an already magnificent place.