Conat – Romanesque churches and routes to Nabilles

This lets you shape your stay around your interests in architectural history, rural heritage and landscapes.

Churches and music

The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste dates from the 12th century and is mentioned as early as 1186. A frieze with a toothed pattern runs along the apse and north wall; the church also houses a 17th-century altarpiece. The building therefore brings together different decorative details: a pattern on the exterior and a furnishing inside. Each year, students from the Pablo Casals Festival perform classical repertoire in the church. If you appreciate classical music in a historic church setting, this recurring programme is a specific point of reference. Exact dates may vary, so check the programme for your travel dates.

Chapels and architectural details

The Sainte Madeleine castle chapel also dates from the 12th century. Two of its side walls are supported by the castle’s fortified enclosure; acoustic vessels are built into the vault. The chapel thus combines its structural integration into the fortifications with a distinctive interior feature. The ramparts by the Sainte Marie Madeleine chapel offer wide views over the Conat nature reserve.

The Romanesque chapel of Sainte-Croix is documented in 1330. Along with the buildings dating from the 12th century, it offers another dated reference to Romanesque religious architecture. A mass is celebrated in the castle chapel for the feast of Saint Mary Magdalene, around 22 July. If you would like to include this date in your travel plans, check the exact time in advance.

Nabilles and landscape heritage

Nabilles is a former pastoral hamlet with numerous dry-stone structures. This rural building style differs markedly from the churches and chapels, offering another perspective on the area’s built heritage. Paths to Nabilles lead from two humpback bridges, making the bridges a specific landmark for finding the way there.

The Romanesque Church of Sainte-Marguerite stands in an isolated, exposed position on the Balençou plateau. Its location on the plateau provides a distinct connection with the landscape alongside the buildings in the village. The Dolmen du Roc de Jornac is another named heritage site in Conat. As a dolmen, it represents a different kind of heritage from the churches and chapels.

Getting your bearings during your stay

Conat’s steep streets climb uphill to the church and the castle ruins. This helps you orient yourself in the village by its prominent buildings. The paths to Nabilles start at two humpback bridges, providing another specific landmark for finding your way. The Conat nature reserve is not specifically intended for outdoor sports activities. If you plan activities there, check the local rules and access conditions.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Espira-De-L'agly, Montauriol, Pia, Palau-de-Cerdagne, Prunet-Et-Belpuig, Planèzes, Formiguères, Tresserre.

See the main travel overview: Pyrénées-Orientales.