SAINT-JULIEN : OLARGUES LE VIEUX

Also known as "From the Priory to the Castellas"? an immersive loop through the medieval history and landscapes of the Haut-Languedoc.

Le Castellas is the fortress of the lords of Olargues, known as Olargues le Vieux. The castrum was first mentioned in 1069 as part of a marriage contract between the daughter of the Viscount of Béziers (Trencavel) and the Viscount of Bruniquel (Aveyron). This inaccessible fortress was abandoned in the 12th century for the rocky outcrop of Olargues. Despite the centuries that followed, the remains are still preserved. Two buildings remain, and one of them features a section of wall in opus spicatum (fishbone), typical of local medieval construction.

Points of interest
Le Prieuré de Saint-Julien: 9th-century religious building, renowned for its acoustics and concerts.
Le Castellas (Olargues le Vieux): Former fortress of the lords of Olargues, mentioned as early as 1069. Impressive remains include an opus spicatum wall, typical of medieval architecture.
Landscapes: Garrigues, holm oaks, pine forests, riparian forests, with the backdrop of the Haut-Languedoc hills.
Atmosphere and nature
A mosaic of Mediterranean landscapes: between shady forests and open glades.
Discreet but present wildlife: birds, butterflies, and occasionally mouflons in the Caroux heights.

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