Haut-lieu du catharisme situé au cœur des Gorges de l'Aveyron, le Château de Penne est un fleuron de l'architecture militaire du XIIIe siècle, dont les travaux de restauration permettent la sauvegarde et les animations médiévales la mise en valeur. Visitors can relive the fascinating history of the site and life in the Middle Ages thanks to an interpretation trail with illustrated panels, costumed tours, events and a medieval work camp.
From 13/07 to 25/08: it's Summer at the Fortress, with daily events to bring the Middle Ages to life in the heart of the castle!
There will be demonstrations and workshops on historical re-enactment, as well as evening visits on Wednesdays and dramatised tours on Sundays.
From Friday 01 September 2023, a 30-minute loop on the rocky mounds will be open only to visitors to the site. This landscaped trail completes the visit to the fortress in the heart of the natural Aveyron gorges. The path invites you to take a stroll under the oak trees to admire new views over the valley and the surrounding walls discovered during the archaeological digs. There are picnic tables and benches all along the route (picnics are allowed, but bring your own bins as there are none on the route). Walking shoes strongly recommended. Last access to the trail 1 hour before the site closes. Children under the supervision of accompanying adults.
In 2024, the Fortress reveals its secrets. In June 2024, to crown the colossal restoration project, open the doors to the new interpretation centre.
- Discover the buried secrets of this mythical site in the museum area: objects found during archaeological digs and collectors' items recounting the daily medieval life that took place centuries ago on this renowned rocky outcrop.
- Explore the fabulous evolution of this promontory in the model room, with 3 reproductions from the 12th, 14th and 19th centuries.
- Watch the film "Histoire d'une Passion" (History of a Passion), which presents the project in its entirety, the work carried out and the history of the site, with a 3D projection of the fortress and its surroundings.