Perpignan, city in southern France, capital of Pyrénées-Orientales Department, near the Mediterranean Sea and Spain. It commands the passes of the eastern Pyrenees. Perpignan lies about 30 km (19 mi) north of the Spanish region of Catalonia, and Catalan culture is evident in the language and cuisine of the city. The city is an important center for trade in fruit, vegetables, and wine, and also has factories making clothing, processed food, and building materials. It is the site of the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Jean and the castle of the kings of Mallorca. The University of Perpignan (1971) is here. Perpignan was the capital of the kingdom of Mallorca from 1276 to 1344, when it was returned to the province of Roussillon. Population (1999) 105,115.
