GREZES

The site of Grèzes was inhabited as early as the Neolithic period and was then called Gredone. During Antiquity, an oppidum (Celtic fortification), intended for defense in case of war, was built on the hilltop before being replaced by a medieval fortress around the 3rd century. In the 12th century, the Counts of Barcelona, then the Kings of Aragon, exercised their high justice there. During the English invasion, the fortress was transformed into a fortified castle, which was razed in 1632 by Richelieu (3 towers, a keep, and a chapel). Grèzes then passed successively into the hands of the English, then the Écorcheurs (mercenary bands), and was the scene of bloody events during the Wars of Religion. Panels recounting the history of Grèzes are located under the arches in the center of the village. While strolling through this charming hilltop village you will enjoy small local heritage sites (bread oven, cross, wash house, ferradou…) as well as sumptuous panoramas.