Arques Castle

Arques Castle - Le Château d'Arques, Arques, Aude, Occitania, French Republic.

The Castle of Arques is located in the town of the same name, in the Aude department, southeast of Carcassonne. It has been classified as a historical monument since August 16, 1887.
The main structure of the complex is quadrangular, featuring four towers. It was built in the 13th century, following the Albigensian Crusade. A four-story keep, complete with a spiral staircase, was once enclosed by a nearly square curtain wall; today, only one side of this wall remains, still incorporating a gateway and two defensive towers.
In the 12th century, as a result of a conflict between the Viscount of Carcassonne and several other noblemen—including the lords of Arques and Lagrasse—the lands of Arques came into the possession of the lords of Termes.
In 1284, Gilles de Voisins began construction on the castle, which was intended to defend the valley and control the local thoroughfares.
Gilles II completed the construction of the castle in 1316. In 1575, the castle was besieged by Protestants; only the keep managed to withstand the assault.
Following the French Revolution, the castle was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was sold as "national property" (biens nationaux) and subsequently suffered some degree of destruction. After 1887, the castle underwent repairs and partial restoration, and it has since been opened to visitors.