An exceptional example of XNUMXth century military architecture, the fortress of Penne dominates the gorges of the Aveyron. Climb to the top of the cliff for a breathtaking view.
A medieval village in the heart of the Aveyron gorges
Classified as a " Grand Site Occitanie " alongside Cordes sur Ciel , Puycelsi, Bruniquel and Castelnau-de-Montmiral, Penne is a village in the Tarn perched above the Aveyron gorges between Albigeois, Quercy and Rouergue.
From Najac or Villefranche de Rouergue, after visiting Saint-Antonin Noble Val , one of the Great Sites of Occitanie and traveling along some pretty winding roads in the valley, let yourself be surprised by this charming village of character.
Come and relive the fascinating history of the fortified castle and life in the Middle Ages
A magical place
Clinging to a rocky spur overlooking the village of Penne, the medieval fortress could serve as the setting for the most fabulous of tales. Battered by the winds more than 120 meters above the Grésigne forest , the site is ideal for bringing the past to life, with stories of battles, princesses, and knights.
Pass through the large gate, whose structure resembles the Narbonne Gate of Carcassonne! Then enter the inner courtyard, the former lord's residence where celebrations and banquets were held. Look up and face the remains of the keep , a symbol of the fortress's military past, whose irregular walls were pierced with arrow slits.
Listed as a Historical Monument in 1902 and open to the public since 2010, the castle is a veritable open-air construction site! During the summer months, the work of the skilled builders will pique your curiosity. Meet these passionate craftsmen and discover archaeological treasures unearthed during the castle's restoration.
Follow an illustrated interpretive trail that will tell you the story of Penne Fortress and the way of life of people in the Middle Ages. Or, immerse yourself in this medieval atmosphere by following a guide in period costume!
With your family and children, follow an educational booklet and discover the site through games.
Opening hours from September 01 to September 30, 2026
Monday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Tuesday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Wednesday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Thursday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Friday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Saturday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Sunday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Holidays
Closed
European Heritage Days: open 10 a.m. to 18:30 p.m.
Opening hours from October 01 to November 11, 2026
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Thursday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Friday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Saturday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Sunday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Holidays
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Guided tours on public holidays and Sundays during school holidays. Halloween evening on Saturday, October 31.
Opening hours from November 12 to November 30, 2026
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Saturday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Sunday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Holidays
Open
Opening hours from December 19 to December 31, 2026
Monday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Tuesday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Wednesday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Thursday
Closed
Friday
Closed
Saturday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Sunday
Open from 10 p.m. to 13 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
Holidays
Closed
Open during the Christmas holidays! Site closed on December 24, 25, and 26.
Prices
Min.
Max.
Individual adult From January 01, 2026 to December 31, 2026 The €9.50 rate applies during Summer at the Fortress from 11/07/26 to 23/08/26.
7,50 €
9,50 €
Individual child From January 01, 2026 to December 31, 2026 For ages 5 to 16 inclusive. The rate of €4.50 applies during Summer at the Fortress from 11/07/26 to 23/08/26.
4 €
4,50 €
Student – Reduced From January 01, 2026 to December 31, 2026 Students, job seekers, CMI card holders (with proof) The €7 rate applies during Summer at the Fortress from 11/07/26 to 23/08/26.
