This magnificent small medieval village is one of the most remarkable sites to be discoveredin Catalonia. It has been classified among the most beautiful villages in France since 1984.Surrounded by two limestone causses, the Causse de Thuir and the Roc de Majorque (alt.443 m); nestled at the Aspres area foot, this village founded in the 10th century seems tohave been forgotten for more than three centuries, after having been the capital of theViscount of Vallespir.The village still retains its medieval appearance with its ramparts punctuated by 8 towersand 4 gates, arranged at the 4 cardinal points, its watchtower and its viscount castle built in990 by the Lord of Castelnou to serve as a military base and ad The rugged appearance ofthis steep site built in stone and arranged in steps, contrasts in a very pleasant way with theprivacy that emerges from its flowery alleys. It is organized around two parallel streets, theCarrer d'Avall and the Carrer del Mig, several staircases allow to pass from one to the other.During your visit you will notice the presence of bread ovens, corniches painted on thereverse side of the tiles and several houses also have beautiful cut stones from the castle.The fortifications remain to a very large extent, the most notable part being the Millars Gateto the north of the village, surrounded by two towers.The 13th century Romanesque parish church of Santa Maria Del Mercadal was built outsidethe village.While strolling through the cobbled streets you will discover many craftsmen. Castelnou inCatalan means "new castle" in FrenchAltitude: 278 meters.