Villefranche-de-Conflent

About

Founded in the 11th century to protect the surrounding valleys from invasion, Villefranche-de-Conflent was refortified in the 17th century by Vauban, the legendary military engineer. While Vauban’s fortifications earned the town a place on the UNESCO list, it’s the charming historic buildings that make it on of the most beautiful villages in France. With expansion limited by the walls and surrounding landscape, the village hasn’t changed much over the centuries, meaning visitors can explore the defensive ramparts and their fortified doors, wander the cobbled streets, such as the monument-lined Rue Saint-Jean, or step into the historic Church of St James through its beautiful entrance, carved in the 12th century from pink marble. High above the village stands Vauban’s Fort Libéria, which can be accessed via shuttle, or through an underground passage with 734 steps - the longest of its kind in the world!