The Pyrénées-Orientales, located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains, not only offer spectacular landscapes, but also fascinating abandoned places for urban exploration (urbex) enthusiasts. Discover five must-see urbex sites in this region, each offering a unique and mysterious experience.
1: The Château d'Aubiry
An Abandoned Jewel of Architecture The Château d'Aubiry , built in the late 19th century, is a magnificent example of abandoned French architecture. Located near Céret, this castle stands majestically despite its state of disrepair.
Site Features
- Architecture: Renaissance style, large rooms, marble staircases.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts in ruins, others well preserved.
- Access: Restricted access, requires discretion and respect for the premises.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the grandeur and fading beauty of the castle.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and imagine life in these places.
2: The Paulilles Dynamite Factory
An Imposing Industrial Vestige The Paulilles dynamite factory , founded by Alfred Nobel in the 19th century, is an abandoned industrial site located in a picturesque bay near Port-Vendres.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Industrial buildings, chimneys, abandoned machinery.
- State of Disrepair: In ruins, but some structures are still standing.
- Access: Free access to certain areas, caution required.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the industrial atmosphere and the contrast with the surrounding nature.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the factory and imagine its past activity.
3: Fort Bellegarde
A Military Witness to History Fort de Bellegarde , located near the Col de Perthus, is an abandoned fortification offering a breathtaking view of the Franco-Spanish border.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of Disrepair: Partially in ruin, some areas still accessible.
- Access: Free access, but some parts require caution.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing military architecture and surrounding landscapes.
- Exploration: Discover the different sections of the fort and delve into its military history.
4: Cerbère Station
A Railway Vestige by the Sea Cerbère station , once an important railway junction for trains between France and Spain, is now largely abandoned, offering a nostalgic and unique atmosphere.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Station buildings, platforms, railway tracks.
- State of Disrepair: Partially ruined, some sections still standing.
- Access: Access is restricted, requiring discretion.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the railway atmosphere and abandoned structures.
- Exploration: Discover the different parts of the station and imagine its past activity.
5: The Village of Perillos
A Forgotten Ghost Village The village of Périllos , abandoned in the 1970s, is a unique site for urbex enthusiasts. Located in the Corbières, this village offers a total immersion in a forgotten rural past.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Stone houses, church, cobbled streets.
- State of Disrepair: Partially in ruins, some houses still standing.
- Access: Free access, but caution required.
Why Visit?
- Photography: Capturing the rural atmosphere and the remains of the village.
- Exploration: Discover the different houses and imagine the daily life of the former inhabitants.
Conclusion
The Pyrénées-Orientales offer a multitude of fascinating urbex sites for urban exploration enthusiasts. From abandoned castles to deserted factories, military forts and ghost towns, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this historic region. Happy exploring!
