Minerve

Minerve extends across a rocky promontory that commands an arid pass, cut through by wild gorges.

Minerve

Minerve citadel enjoys a very picturesque setting, full of unusual curiosities, such as its natural bridges. It is one of the most beautiful villages of France.

As you emerge from the gorges of La Cesse and Le Briant, the village appears at the end of a limestone plateau bordered with steep cliffs in a fantastic and tortuous mineral landscape. The origins of Minerve seem to be earlier than the fortress of the Viscounts of Minerve which was built in the 11th century. The fortress is linked to the limestone plateau by a drawbridge and was one of the strongholds of the Cathars to be besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1210. As well as the remains of the 12th-century castle, you must see the St Rustique well: it was the destruction of this well that brought about the surrender of Minerve. You should also visit the Romanesque church, some parts of which date from the 5th century, and the archaeological museum. Take a walk through the narrow streets of the village fringed with ancient houses, of a sober construction, using stone from the limestone plateau. Taste the local wine which has been produced by Minervois wine-growers for centuries.

Tourist Office - 9 rue des Martyrs - 34210 Minerve - Tel: + 33 (0)4 68 91 81 43 - Website