5 Facts about Collioure, France That Might Surprise You

Located on the Mediterranean coast of Southern France, just 25km from the Spanish border is the small, romantic town of Collioure. While proudly French, Collioure is a town where two cultures collide. With a history that far stretches both the French and Spanish occupancy, Collioure has many stories to tell. Here, we’ve put together some facts about Collioure, France that we think you might find interesting!

At a Glance

Population: 3, 171

Language Spoken: French

Distance from Paris: 706km (as the crow flies)

Collioure was once two villages separated by the Douy River.

The old town was named Port D’Aval (known today as Le Faubourg) in the south and the upstream port, Port D’Amont (now La Ville)

One of the first things you’ll notice in Collioure are the colourful buildings…

Locals are actually forbidden from using black or white paint on their houses, so the town is a kaleidoscope of colour set against the blue of the ocean and vine-covered hills.

Collioure is home to an anchovy festival!

The town was originally an anchovy port; the fish are still all processed by hand and are celebrated at an Anchovy Festival which is held on the first weekend in June.

Collioure was the holiday destination of choice for many artists.

One of the first painters to spend time here was Paul Signac in the late 19th century, followed by Matisse and Derain in the early 20th century. After that, other artists to the area have included Chagall, Dufy, Mackintosh, Ihlee, Dali and Picasso.