The Pyrénées-Orientales, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees Mountains, offers not only 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: Aubiry Castle
An Abandoned Jewel of Architecture: The Château d'Aubiry , built at the end of the 19th century, is a magnificent example of abandoned French architecture. Located near Céret, this château stands majestically despite its state of disrepair.
Site Features
- Architecture: Renaissance style, large rooms, marble staircases.
- State of disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, others are well preserved.
- Access: Restricted access, requires discretion and respect for the premises.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the grandeur and fading beauty of the castle.
- Exploration: Discover the different rooms and imagine the past life in these places.
2: The Paulilles Dynamite Factory
An Imposing Industrial Relic 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 it?
- 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: The Bellegarde Fort
A Military Witness to History: The Fort of Bellegarde , located near the Perthus pass, is an abandoned fortification offering an unobstructed view of the Franco-Spanish border.
Site Features
- Architecture: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some areas still accessible.
- Access: Free access, but some parts require caution.
Why visit it?
- 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 Relic by the Sea: Cerbère station , once an important railway hub 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 in ruins, some sections still standing.
- Access: Access is restricted, requiring discretion.
Why visit it?
- 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 Périllos
A Forgotten Ghost Village: The village of Périllos , abandoned in the 1970s, is a unique site for urban exploration enthusiasts. Located in the Corbières region, this village offers total immersion in a forgotten rural past.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Stone houses, church, paved streets.
- State of disrepair: Partially in ruins, some houses still standing.
- Access: Free access, but caution is advised.
Why visit it?
- 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 region offers a multitude of fascinating urban exploration sites for fans of urban exploration. From abandoned castles and deserted factories to military forts and ghost villages, each location offers a unique adventure. By respecting safety rules and property rights, you can enjoy memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this historic region. Happy exploring!
