COLOMBIERS
30th Anniversary of the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Sunday, September 27, 2026 ? Colombiers
Thirty years ago, the Canal du Midi was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. To celebrate this anniversary, the Cour du Roy invites you to relive the extraordinary story of Pierre-Paul Riquet and his incredible project: connecting two seas via the Canal du Midi.
In Colombiers, come experience a day steeped in history, set in the atmosphere of the Grand Siècle.
Please note: space is limited! Hurry and reserve your seat at the royal table, and join us for this grand historical event.
WHAT THE DAY HAS IN STORE FOR YOU
10:30 a.m. – The Arrival of the Procession
Watch as Pierre-Paul Riquet appears in a carriage and travels through the Old Village in grand style, until the Mayor, Riquet himself, and the King address the assembled crowd.
12:30 p.m. – The Start of the Feast
Under the roof of the Cave du Château de Colombiers, where a wooden framework reminiscent of an upturned ship’s hull will leave you in awe, watch an equestrian show, then let André Mas, a connoisseur of beverages from days gone by, tell you about and let you sample an anisette from another era, a Carthagène, and a hypocras—that sweet wine once served at the finest tables— All accompanied by savory crackers and olives.
1:30 p.m. ? The Grand Banquet
Take a seat upstairs in the cellar and, beneath this same extraordinary roof, savor a feast worthy of royal tables, consisting of four courses? And be aware that the Court has a few surprises in store that it will reveal only to those who have made the journey:
The King’s Soup—beef, veal, and poultry broth, seasoned with herbs from another era
Spit-roasted ham, served with a golden gravy made with herbs from the Logis
The Steward’s Platter—a duo of Roquefort and Pélardon cheeses, served with quince jam
The Royal Orchard Tart—caramelized apples, orange blossom
3:20 p.m. – Honoring the Most Loyal
Those who have dressed in period attire should know that a surprise gift awaits them as a reward for their devotion to the Grand Siècle. Then the entire Court will proceed to the amphitheater for the final performance, which will bring the day to a majestic close (3:45 PM – 5:45 PM).
THE COURT’S WINE
On site, the winemakers themselves—dressed in period costume for the occasion—will serve you the wine of your choice in exchange for a ticket purchased at the entrance—an experience meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail.
THE PRICE OF ROYAL HOSPITALITY
60? per guest (wine not included)
Includes: procession, appetizers and guided tasting, grand banquet with surprises, and access to the final show
Dress in period costume: the Court will reward the most daring!
