Perpignan has hogged the limelight for centuries. First as the mainland capital of the kings of Mallorca until 1349, then as Catalonia’s second city (after Barcelona) until the region was annexed to France in 1659. By the early 20th century, it was attracting the most notable artists of the time, including Picasso, Lurçat and Dalí. After a fall from grace in the concrete, post-war years, the old town has been re-pedestrianised and is reclaiming its artistic heritage.
Not quite French, nor Spanish, but thoroughly Catalan, this city is as bright and vibrant as the red and yellow striped flags that adorn the colourful buildings.
