Céret, cherry capital

14/11/2020
Catalan culture, Gastronomy, Heritage, Tourism

Céret, cherry capital and city of art in the heart of Vallespir

Céret is known as the cherry capital. Nestled in the heart of Vallespir, at the foot of the Pyrenees and crossed by the Tech, the city has been growing this emblematic fruit for more than 150 years. Thanks to a favorable terroir and a sunny climate, the Céret cherry has become a true symbol of the Catalan Country.

But this Catalan village is not just about its red fruit. City of art, history and traditions, she seduces with her heritage, his famous Devil's Bridge, its emblematic fountains and its internationally recognized Museum of Modern Art.

Located about forty minutes from the Catalan hinterland, it constitutes an ideal getaway between nature, culture and sweetness of life.

Devil's Bridge, medieval masterpiece on Tech

Arriving in Céret, impossible to miss Devil's Bridge. This impressive stone bridge spans the Tech River with a spectacular unique arch of 45 meters of range.

Built in the 14th century during the time of the Kings of Majorca, at the time it represented a remarkable technical feat. According to legend, its construction would have been made possible thanks to the intervention of the devil himself, hence its mysterious name.

Beyond the legend, The Devil's Bridge remains a strong symbol and a perfect starting point for discovering the city.

Get lost in its cobbled streets

Once arrived in the historic center, let yourself be carried away by the Catalan art of living. The center can be explored on foot, at the bend of its cobbled streets and its shaded squares.

You will discover :

Saint-Pierre church
the typical colorful facades
art galleries
the lively terraces

Its famous fountains also contribute to its charm. The Fountain 9 Jets, dominated by a lion symbol of Castile, bears the Latin inscription “Venite Ceretens, the lion became a rooster", which can be translated as “Come Cérétans, the lion has become a rooster”. A historical reference linked to ancient rivalries.

The Picasso Fountain pays tribute to the artist who stayed there for a long time. After giving his name to a place, the city dedicated this fountain to him decorated with a drawing evoking the Sardana, traditional Catalan dance.

City of art and inspiration

This village occupies a special place in the history of modern art. From the beginning of the 20th century, the city attracts great artists like Pablo Picasso, George Braque, Juan Gris or Chaïm Soutine.

The Museum of Modern Art bears witness to this artistic effervescence. It houses a remarkable collection of 20th century works and regularly organizes high-quality temporary exhibitions..

This museum constitutes one of the major cultural centers of the Pyrénées-Orientales.

Cherry capital for over 150 years

The Céret cherry enjoys a national reputation. Every spring, the first fruits are traditionally sent to the President of the Republic, continuing an ancient tradition.

The Cherry Festival, organized in May, livens up the city with tastings, entertainment and festive market. The Vallespir terroir, associated with a favorable climate, explains the quality and precocity of production.

Strolling around during cherry season allows you to discover another side of the city, gourmet and friendly.

The market, unmissable Saturday event

Every Saturday morning, the market attracts residents and visitors. It is considered one of the most beautiful markets in the department..

Local producers, craftsmen and traders offer :

seasonal fruits and vegetables
farm cheeses
Catalan charcuterie
Roussillon wines
local specialties

This market is a real moment of life where you can fully feel the Catalan soul.

A cultural and authentic getaway

Céret offers a rare combination of medieval heritage, agricultural tradition and artistic heritage. We can spend the day alternating :

visit the Devil's Bridge
discovery of the Museum of Modern Art
stroll in the streets
gourmet break at the market

After this immersion in the cherry capital, find the calm of your lodging of the hinterland allows you to extend the discovery of the Catalan Country in a more serene environment, between sea and mountain.

FAQ – Cherries

Why is Céret called the cherry capital ?

Céret has been growing cherries for more than 150 years. Thanks to its terroir and its climate, it produces among the first French cherries each year.