Carcassonne (Aude)

Carcassonne

Carcassone by Night

Bridge over the old moat, Carcassone

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Carcassonne (Aude) mini guide

Carcassonne is strategically positioned between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean and stands in the gap between the Pyrenees and the Massif Central of France. It is located in the department of Aude in the Languedoc Roussillon region, 90 km (56 miles) south east of Toulouse.

Carcassonne is made up of two towns the walled Cité on its hill, and below, over the River Aude, the Bastide Saint-Louis. The Bastide, or Ville Basse, is the lower town, a 13th century development which was laid out to a grid like plan and was surrounded by walls. The earlier, fortified hill town dates back to the 6th century BC, when there was a Gaulish settlement on the site.

The medieval walled city, standing on its hill and capped by pointed towers, is a wonder to behold. Once you have come to terms with the spectacle of its full size and have passed through the huge gates into the city itself, there is much to see. Through its maze of narrow cobbled streets lie an abundance of small shops selling a variety of hand made jewellery, leather goods and artwork. Hither and thither there are plenty of places to eat and drink. These vary from somewhere to grab a quick burger, to rather more romantic restaurants offering a chance to have a quiet, relaxed meal in a pretty courtyard setting.

In 1997, the city of Carcassonne was listed by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) in it’s World Heritage List as one of 28 sites in France. UNESCO says, the “Historic town of Carcassonne is an excellent example of a medieval fortified town whose massive defences were constructed on walls dating from Late Antiquity. It is of exceptional importance by virtue of the restoration work carried out in the second half of the 19th century by Viollet-le-Duc, which had a profound influence on subsequent developments in conservation principles and practice”.

Today, the city of Carcassonne is Europe’s largest fortified citadel and an extremely popular place to visit. It is possible to pass several pleasant hours wandering the streets of the town exploring the exciting series of towers, turrets and ramparts, with fantastic views and countless photo-opportunities.

When visitors are ready to move from the crowded lanes of the Cité, they can stroll down to the lower town, over the old bridge. There are benches and riverside walks, as well as a number of sights to see. The famous Canal du Midi passes through Carcassonne, with a charming little marina next to the station. Boat trips will take you on a leisurely canal cruise, or walkers may enjoy a ramble along the broad canal side path.