While drive back from Barcelona, we decided to stop for lunch in Collioure, France. It is a small village on the Mediterranean Coast, just over the boarder of Spain. This area was considered part of Catalonia until the mid 17th century. During the 14th century, this port was one of the biggest trading centers of Aragon, transporting cloth made in Perpignan. When the French gained control, the city was modernized. The old quarter that survives is now the center of Collioure.
At the far end of the town is the church Notre Dame des Agnes. The lighthouse is attached to the church providing the bell tower. On the other end of town is the Chateau Royal which was built atop a former Roman site. It was the former summer home of the kings of Majorca from 1276-1344 until taken over by the kings of Aragon.
More recently, Fauve artists including Henri Matisse, Pablo Pisasso and Andre Derain among others painted here. There are frames set up around town where these artists set their easels to paint.
The anchovies from this region are world famous. The preparation of the anchovies is the same as it has always been; brine soaked from May to August, rinsed and packed in oil either in tins or jars. A favorite preparation is mashing the anchovies in olive oil with basil and garlic and spreading it on toasted french bread. This accompanies an aperitif.
The Collioure AOC designation is most recent, in the 1970s. The vineyards are unique that the grapevines are trained as bush vines. Reds are full bodied, with polished tannin's and a deep dark color. Rose's are very aromatic and have a raspberry color. A few whites are made as well, full bodied and golden colored.
This is a lovely stop, and highly recommended.
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