Perched on a rocky outcrop, the medieval castle of Foix dominates the roofs of the old town and the confluence of the Ariège and Arget. It has preserved three machicolated towers and high walls from its past as an impregnable stronghold. This imposing former fortress of the Counts of Foix now houses the Ariège departmental museum, which traces the history of the county of Foix and the castle through themed exhibitions and collections of medieval everyday objects, weapons and armour. This hilltop site also offers a stunning panorama of the town, Ariège valley and the surrounding mountains from the top of the round tower.
Below, Foix old town is a particularly lovely place for a stroll, with its narrow shopping lanes and pretty squares peppered with café terraces. Also not to be missed along the way are Saint-Volusien abbey church and its beautiful 17th-century carved stalls, and the Baltard-style Halle aux Grains, a covered market place.
In August, a sound and light pageant is put on at the Théâtre de Verdure in Foix.
The town organises its annual celebrations on the first weekend of September with a funfair, dancing, torchlight procession and concerts. Great entertainment guaranteed!
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| Tourism in Foix | Foix travel guide and tourist information |
| Castles & Palaces in France | Castles and palaces from the Middle Ages to today |
| Cities & Towns in France | Famous vineyards where France's best wines are produced |
| Ariège travel guide | Best places of the Ariège |
| Midi-Pyrénées travel guide | Best places of Midi-Pyrénées |
| Photos of Foix | Photos of the category "Foix" to view and download |
| Photos of the Ariège | Photos of the Ariège to view and download |
| Photos of Midi-Pyrénées | Photos of Midi-Pyrénées to view and download |
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