The Fortress of Foix
by W Chris Fooshee
Title
The Fortress of Foix
Artist
W Chris Fooshee
Medium
Photograph
Description
The Château de Foix overlooks the town of Foix, at the confluence of the Ariège and Arget rivers. The site was already inhabited in prehistoric times before the existing castle was built on an older 7th century fortification. Documented from 987, the Château was mentioned in 1002 providing control over the whole of the upper Ariège valley.
In 1034, the castle played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle played an important role on the Cathar side during the Albigensian Crusade (1209–1229).
In the Middle Ages, the castle was considered impregnable, and was often besieged (most notably in 1211 and 1212). It resisted assault but was surrendered under diplomatic pressure. It was taken by force only once, in 1486.
The Round Tower, built in the 15th century, is the most recent, the two square towers having been built before the 11th century. They served as a political and civil prison for four centuries until 1862. Since 1930, the castle housed the collections of a regional museum.
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September 20th, 2020
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