The fortress of Salses started life as a Spanish defensive structure. It was started under king Ferdinand in 1497 and took several years to complete. However, under the Treaty of the Pyreneees, in 1659 it became French property, as did the whole of Rousillon which had previously formed part of Spain. At the fort’s time of construction it represented the state of the art for a military fortress and, if you take one of the guided  tours, the guide  will explain the complexity of the clever design which made it such a strong military defence. However you are also at liberty to wander round many parts of the fort without a guide and to visit the small museum within the fort which explains how it was constructed. There is a short guide to the fort  in English which is available at the ticket desk.

The fort is open every day (except public holidays) throughout the year, although opening hours are shorter in the winter months. There is a charge for entry.

The fort de Salses is about 15 km north of Perpignan and therefore about 35 km from our house. If you take the autoroute one section north it takes about 30-35 mins. to reach and the visit takes about 2 -2½ hours.