Fort Saint-Elme

Fort Saint-Elme, the stone star above Collioure

On the ridge overlooking the bay, an imposing stone star keeps watch over Collioure: this is Fort Saint-Elme. Even from afar, its massive outline draws the eye and recalls the military vocation of the whole Côte Vermeille. The Collioure audio-guided tour helps you understand how this hilltop stronghold worked together with the royal castle below to protect the harbour and the village.

From medieval origins to Charles V

The site's origins go back to the early Middle Ages, but the fort owes its star shape to the era of Charles V, who had it rebuilt in the sixteenth century to adapt the stronghold to firearms. Its commanding position made it an ideal lookout: from its walls, both the sea and the inland valleys could be watched. Over the centuries it was reworked through the conflicts that set the crowns of France and Spain against each other along this Catalan border.

What to see

Fort Saint-Elme's main asset is its panorama: from the ridge, the view plunges over Collioure, Port-Vendres and the coastline as far as the foothills of the Albères. The star shape, clearly read from the bay, is a textbook example of Renaissance military architecture. Worth noting when planning a visit: the fort is private property and, in recent years, has remained closed to visitors and visible only from the outside.

Practical information

Fort Saint-Elme stands on the heights between Collioure and Port-Vendres, about thirty kilometres south-east of Perpignan. It is reached by road and then by an uphill path; sturdy shoes are recommended. Important: the fort is now private and has been closed to visitors since 2023 because of renovation work, so it can only be seen from the outside. Before making any trip intended to visit it, it is strongly advised to check its opening status with official sources, as the situation may change.

Can you visit Fort Saint-Elme?

The fort is private property and has remained closed to visitors since 2023 for works; it can then only be seen from the outside. It is best to check its opening status before going.

Why does the fort have a star shape?

This shape dates from its reconstruction under Charles V in the sixteenth century, designed to withstand artillery: it is a typical example of Renaissance bastioned fortresses.

What can you see from Fort Saint-Elme?

Its ridge position offers a panoramic view over Collioure, Port-Vendres, the Côte Vermeille and the hinterland as far as the Albères.