We ended up in Perpignan, one might say, almost by accident - after a week-long stay in Paris, where we were frequent guests, we wanted something new. And, having read about the popularity of Perpignan among European tourists (although Russians know little about it), we set aside 3 days to explore the beauties of this town.
How to get to this cozy town?
The city of Perpignan in France is Spain in miniature
Many consider Perpignan a transit point on their way from France to Spain or vice versa. To some extent this is true, if you are coming from Spain you can get to Carcassonne, Montpellier or Toulouse, and if from France you can easily get to Cadaqués, Figueres or Girona and Barcelona. But this opinion is erroneous, because Perpignan is a real Spain in France in miniature. This is a quiet provincial town in which everything is Spanish. The houses here are massive, they are built of red and yellow stone, and the streets are narrow and winding. It turns out that this city belongs to France only on November 7, 1659, when the so-called Treaty of the Pyrenees was signed between France and Spain (a peace treaty that was the result of a long-term war that had dragged on since 1635 between France and Spain). Prior to this, the city was the residence of the Pope of Avignon, who was under the protection of the Spaniards and moved his capital to Perpignan. Later, the city was the capital of the kingdom of Mallorca, which lasted only 70 years (this was in the 18th-19th centuries). [box] For the first time the town of Perpignan was mentioned in 927, when the counts of Roussillon chose it as a residence.[/box] A useful thing for especially independent travelers is tourist offices, or rather, their services. Very convenient service - we came, we were given a map, everything was explained in detail, and forward, to conquer the sights of Perpignan.
Sights of the French town of Perpignan
It was interesting to see Train Station, painted by S. Dali himself in 1963. The artist is said to have called Perpignan "the center of the universe". For this vivid expression, probably, the local authorities erected a monument to the genius near the station, and even signed "Perpignan - the center of the world." Modest, whatever. By the way, an interesting feature of small towns in France is that although tourism is their bread and butter, few of the indigenous people will undertake to help a lost tourist. If you do not know French - turn yourself. 
The only thing is that the most responsive were the old women, who happily helped to find the famous Palace of the Kings of Mallorca in the 13th century- a whole fortress surrounded by huge pine trees. It is really worth a visit, there is a small museum inside, and what a view from its observation tower! A picturesque green town with red roofs of buildings surrounded by mountains - at a glance. From here, it is within easy reach of a stunning merchant's house. Legend has it that Anna of Austria herself stayed here. Inside it is very beautiful, with tapestries, a medieval fireplace, carved furniture and a small courtyard overgrown with flowers, filled with the spirit of antiquity. It is also close to the center Rico Museum, which features the work of medieval artists, and citadel in the Gothic style of the Palais de Rua de Majorque which was once the residence of kings. We devoted the evening to a walk through the modern "sights" of the city - we went into a charming, very popular among Perpignans La Miranda park. Locals arrange picnics here, and young people come to ride bicycles and roller skates. 
El Castelet tower - the symbol of the city of Perpignan
The next day we visited El Castelet tower- the only surviving fortification of the city. This "Small Castle" is considered a symbol of the city. You can also safely recommend a visit Church of St. Mary, Cathedral of St. John of the XIV century. A must to visit Collioure- a fortress, a castle of kings and a trading port all rolled into one.
This is how they mourn in Perpignan on Good Friday for those sentenced to death
A Good Friday in Perpignan you can see an unforgettable, however, gloomy spectacle - a "living landmark" of the city. In complete silence, people in black pointed caps and black robes walk through the streets. The Holy Inquisition or some Ku Klux Klans immediately come to mind. In fact, it is they who mourn those sentenced to death so much. This tradition originated in the 15th century .. And so, in general, this "Spanish island" on the banks of the River Tet is sunny and cheerful, the center of local winemaking. 
In addition to the sights, Perpignan pleased with excellent cuisine, and more Spanish than French. Excellent seafood dishes, paella, homemade wines - that's what I especially remember. Moreover, the prices are normal, and the quality is excellent. There are sea cafes and restaurants, the guide says that there are about 500 of them, so no one will be left hungry. We also got to the beach - it's about 25 minutes by local bus from the city center. [box type="info"] To be honest, the beach is not the best in the world, but you can swim and sunbathe. The water is very warm - 24-25C, grace. There are also many cafes and restaurants with excellent cuisine, judging by the reviews.[/box] That's how the visit to Perpignan flew by unnoticed, the program was rich, and how many beauties we had not yet had time to see. Will definitely have to come here again. A few words about where to stay. We chose a hotel on Booking and settled on Myperpignan apartments. Convinced by the large number of positive reviews and excellent location almost in the center. The place is really calm, there is a market nearby. Recommend ????
