On a hill surrounded by umbrella pines stands the Chapelle de Montalaurou. It is an important pilgrimage site, towers above the surrounding villages and offers an exceptional view of the surrounding settlements and the Orb Valley.
Culture and History
In 1203, Raymond-Roger, Viscount of Béziers, authorised the chapter of Saint-Nazaire to fortify the church of Pailhès. This authorisation was renewed in 1326 and 1338. Historical defensive features such as portcullises, loopholes and a glacis at the foot of high walls have been preserved in Pailhès.
Saint-Étienne de Pailhès is associated with a fresco cycle depicting the Apocalypse of John. The church also contains mid-20th-century icons by Nicolas Greschny. In 1963, an altar cippus was discovered in the 19th-century altar; it is more likely to have belonged to this church than to a Visigothic building.
The Chapelle de Montalaurou is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. Construction began in 1855, and it was inaugurated on 5 August 1861.
Landscape
Apart from exceptional events, the Chapelle de Montalaurou is open two days a year: 15 August and 8 December.
Hiking and Events
The “La Combe Rossignol” hiking route near Pailhès is an easy 10.7-kilometre circular walk. The walking time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with 88 metres of ascent and descent respectively. The hike starts at the Place du Château car park near the church in Pailhès.
The “La Combe Rossignol” route also has an optional detour to the Chapelle de Montalaurou with a picnic area.
The “Pailhès en vert” event on 25 April 2026 featured stalls selling flowers, plants, trees and seedlings, a gardening workshop, an organic market with regional products and handicrafts, aromatic and edible plants, as well as activities for children.
The wish to rent a holiday apartment in Pailhès concerns a place with the Chapelle de Montalaurou.
