Martial figures in the harbour of Collioure

You’re strolling leisurely along the promenade in the harbour of Collioure – and suddenly soldiers in combat gear and camouflage pass you by – what’s the background to this, which seems to disturb the relaxed holiday mood?

Historically, the town has a significant military past. Two historical military structures are particularly noteworthy: The Chateau Royal de Collioure fortress was built in the 13th century by the Kings of Mallorca and later extended by the Kings of Aragon and France. It played an important role as a strategic military fortress in the Middle Ages and early modern period, but today it is merely a historical monument and a tourist attraction for exhibitions and cultural events.

Fort Saint-Elme was built in the 16th century during the reign of Charles V and later reinforced by Vauban, the famous French military engineer. Fort Saint-Elme offered a strategic view of the coast and served as a defence against invasions. Nowadays, Fort Saint-Elme is also a historical monument and open to the public. It offers museums, guided tours and events that highlight the military history and significance of the fortress.

Today, Collioure is one of the locations for the Centre national d’entraînement commando (CNEC). Its mission is to strengthen the army’s leadership. The National Commando Training Centre (CNEC) is perfectly tailored to the task of training army cadres and receives around 3,000 trainees annually, including students from basic training schools or personnel from the various corps.

The practical part of the courses takes place at Fort Miradou, on the neighbouring sports field or even directly in the harbour. A training course is often set up in the water in front of the church of Notre Dame des Anges, which participants have to complete – accompanied by numerous spectators sitting comfortably in the bars and restaurants along the promenade.