The 18th-century residence of the Kings of Mallorca, this imposing palace overlooks the city. The square building is studded with six towers and opens onto a gigantic central courtyard that leads to the royal apartments. The austere architecture is lightened by several gothic and Mediterranean elements. The oldest section is now used for a number of cultural events throughout the year, in particular the summer festivals held in the hanging gardens.

Address: rue des Archers, 66000 Perpignan

More information: http://www.perpignantourisme.com

Today’s cathedral, which is currently being renovated, dates from the 14th century. Historians claim that it was preceded by two earlier churches, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin del Correch (of the stream, in Catalan), and Saint-Jean-le-Vieux Cathedral, consecrated in 1025. The likeliest theory is that the builders of this early Christian era constructed their monuments on the same site. A hundred years after it was built, the original nave was replaced by a triple nave.

Address: Place Gambetta, 66000 Perpignan

More information: http://www.perpignantourisme.com

A Catalan artist, Hyacinthe Rigaud was none other than painter to the court of King Louis XIV. The city pays tribute to him with this museum, which was founded in 1820 and holds more than half his works. Other great artists on display are Maillol, Picasso and Dufy, who lived in Perpignan for the last ten years of his life. One room, in the style of a cabinet of curiosities, displays 211 works by 211 modern artists.

Address: 16, rue de l'Ange, 66000 Perpignan

More information: http://www.mairie-perpignan.fr/vie-pratique/culture/musees/hyacinthe-rigaud

This is one of Perpignan’s rare gothic houses. It has undergone alterations over the centuries but the façade retains a16th-century sculpted frieze representing the 7 deadly sins. Inside, the ground floor features beautiful gothic vaults and an elegant patio. On the first floor, the imposing relief map of Perpignan city is a copy of the one made under Louis XIV. The original is in the Musée des Invalides in Paris.

Address: 8, rue de la Main-Fer, 66100 Perpignan

More information: http://www.perpignantourisme.com/decouvrir/monuments/casa-xanxo

This collection of coins and medals, set up by the rich Perpignan businessman Joseph Puig (1859-1929), is the largest in Europe. The bulk of this legacy is made up of sometimes unique coins dating from the 12th century to the modern day. Other ancient, Egyptian and feudal coins complete the collection.

Address: 42, avenue de Grande-Bretagne, 66000 Perpignan

More information: http://www.mairie-perpignan.fr/vie-pratique/culture/musees/joseph-puig

Though it looks like a little castle, Le Castillet was in fact one of the city gates. Built in the late 14th century (1368), it was altered under Louis XI, but the changes to the symbol of Perpignan didn’t end there. Originally a watchtower, the little castle became a prison before taking on a more pleasant role in the 20th century. Under its surprisingly long machicolation and rose-domed turret you can now fine Casa Pairal, the Museum of Catalan Folk Arts and Traditions.

Address: Place de Verdun, 66000 Perpignan

More information: http://www.mairie-perpignan.fr/vie-pratique/culture/monuments/castillet