Beaufort is a commune in the Hérault department, in the Occitanie region, 14 km north of Lézignan-Corbières.
Its territory of 6 km² crossed by several rivers such as the Tartiguier belongs to the natural and agricultural region of Minervois. The locality has remained rural, covered mainly by cultivated land (52% of its surface area) and other agricultural areas (38%).
The village developed in the 11th century around a feudal castle which undoubtedly succeeded a Roman castrum. Ideally located between Haut-Languedoc and the plain, the small seigneury is a large agricultural estate. In the 19th century, in addition to quarrying, viticulture became established. It remains the primary wealth of Beaufort (Minervois appellation wines), which also highlights its heritage (even if the original fortified castle has been significantly altered) and its environment conducive to hiking.
Although the town has only 220 inhabitants, its vitality and the charm of its historic town can appeal to lovers of green tourism.
In terms of heritage, the castle which dominates the plain from the village remains imposing. In its current form, it dates from the 18th century. We observe that it is made up of three buildings in a U shape, with two old cylindrical towers at the corners, on the rear facade. The central dwelling and the round towers seem to be the oldest constructions, the "west" wing having been added in the 18th century, a period during which the whole was "modernized". Three levels high, the castle sits on fortified bases (walls). Once confiscated from the lords of Beaufort who had raised him but who had participated in the Albigensian crusade, in the Revolution, he still belonged to their descendant François d'Amieu de Beaufort, knight of the Royal and Military order of Saint-Louis.
Today, although listed in the Inventory, including due to certain interior decorations (gypsumwork), the castle is still private property but is no longer inhabited or habitable. Security and restoration work will be required for the future owners of the premises. However, its silhouette remains unmissable and with the neighboring streets with old houses, it constitutes the historic heart of the small town.
To see next, the Saint-Martin church. Note that its choir and two of the bays are of Romanesque origin (11th century), but an additional bay and the bell tower were rebuilt at the end of the 19th century. The side chapels are also from distinct periods: to the north, the one dedicated to Notre-Dame seems to be in Gothic style while to the south, the Saint-Joseph chapel was built in the 19th century…
In another register, we notice the school built in 1888 typical of the republican policy of the end of the 19th century and which has now been converted into an inn... But its character has been preserved.
Finally, in the north-east of the territory, in the form of rural remains, in the place called Artix, there are testimonies of a Carolingian or pre-Carolingian church brought to light during excavations in the years 1970. Dedicated to Saint Cosmas, the church covered with tiles and then slate had a single nave extended by a flat apse.
On the leisure side, shows and community activities are regularly organized in the municipal multipurpose room (information at the town hall on +33 4 68 91 23 35) and in addition, a playground and a "city park" with land are accessible to visitors football and basketball.
The potential in terms of hiking is also highlighted. Two routes are marked in the locality, starting from the church. One of them includes the site of the castle and that of the remains of the Saint-Côme church, hence its name "Chemin de Saint-Côme". Other routes are available, of larger scale, such as the Tour du Minervois circuit which connects several villages including Beaufort. Maps and information from the intercommunal tourist office on +33 4 67 97 06 65.
A circuit can also include some wine estates typical of the region. The producers will be happy to welcome amateurs and curious people for cellar visits and tastings. It is advisable to warn... This is the case of Jérôme Portal of the Artix estate (contact on +33 4 23 10 19 20) or of the Mendoza house (contact +33 6 11 39 69 82).
The village of Beaufort is finally renowned for its artists and creators whose works and workshops can be discovered. Here again, it is advisable to inquire beforehand or make an appointment. Worth mentioning are Kévin Vella, creator of knives and art objects (call +33 6 70 54 04 64), Karine Verdier, sculptor (call +33 6 31 30 88 52), and painters Gabrielle Guerrero (contact +33 6 31 69 07 74) and Rojamanée Rickmounie (information on +33 6 29 83 41 46).
