Carcassonne is a fortified medieval city in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the Roman period. The original settlement, known as Carcasum, was established by the Romans in the 1st century AD as a military fortress. The Roman Empire built a road that connected the city to the Mediterranean Sea and the city prospered as an important trading center.
During the Middle Ages, the city became a major center of the Albigensian Crusade, a religious war fought in the Languedoc region in the early 13th century. The castle and walls were built in the 13th century by the French King Louis IX to protect the city from invading forces. It was also a strategic point for the French King during the Hundred Years War against England.
In the 19th century, the city was in a state of disrepair and was nearly dismantled. However, the architect Viollet-le-Duc was commissioned to restore the city and it was saved from destruction. His restoration work is considered to be a masterpiece of medieval architecture and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Today, Carcassonne is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its rich history, ancient architecture, and picturesque squares.
Carcassonne offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the city. Here's a description of some of the Carcassonne tours available:
Guided Walking Tours: Guided walking tours are a popular way to discover the highlights of Carcassonne. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours take you through the winding streets of the fortified city, providing insights into its rich history, architecture, and legends. You'll have the opportunity to explore the medieval walls, visit the Count's Castle, admire the Basilica of St. Nazaire, and learn about the city's fascinating past.
Medieval City Tours: Carcassonne's medieval city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and dedicated tours focus specifically on this aspect. Led by expert guides, these tours delve deeper into the medieval history, culture, and daily life of Carcassonne. You'll learn about the construction of the fortifications, the role of Carcassonne in the Cathar Crusades, and the significance of the city's architectural features.
Wine Tours: Given Carcassonne's location in the Languedoc region, renowned for its wine production, wine tours are a popular choice. These tours take you to nearby vineyards and wineries, where you can sample local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and gain insights into the terroir and grape varieties of the region. Some wine tours also include visits to picturesque wine villages and pairings with regional gastronomy.
Canal du Midi Boat Tours: The Canal du Midi, which passes through Carcassonne, offers boat tours that provide a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings. These tours allow you to cruise along the canal, passing through locks and enjoying the scenic beauty of the waterway. You'll learn about the history of the canal's construction, its importance for trade and transportation, and the ecosystems it supports.
Ghost Tours: For those seeking a different kind of experience, Carcassonne also offers ghost tours. These atmospheric tours take you through the dimly lit streets and alleyways of the medieval city, recounting tales of legends, mysteries, and ghostly apparitions. It's an opportunity to delve into the darker side of Carcassonne's history and folklore.
Whether you choose a walking tour, a specialized historical tour, a wine tour, or a boat tour, Carcassonne offers a range of options to suit different interests and preferences. These tours provide a captivating way to discover the city's unique charm, unravel its stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural heritage.
The Present Cité
Recognisable as the medieval one which was the seat of the Trencavel family Viscounts of Carcassonne, before the area was annexed by France in the thirteenth century. It was besieged by the French in 1209 soon after the famous massacre at Beziers, during the early stages of the wars against the people of the Languedoc, sometimes known as the Cathar wars or the Albigensian Crusade and Sieges of Carcassonne in 1209 and 1240. A large part of the structure dates from the pre-French period, including the inner city walls and part of the Viscounts’ castle known as the chateau Comtal. The outer defensive walls and the barbican of the chateau Comtal are French, added in the thirteenth century, and all of it was heavily restored in the nineteenth century. Before the French period it was home to the distinctive Occitanconcept of paratage, as well as to the rich culture of the troubours and the Cathars.
Carcassonne Castle
A large part of the structure dates from the pre-French period, including the inner city walls and part of the Viscounts’ castle known as the chateau Comtal. The outer defensive walls and the barbican of the chateau Comtal are French, added in the thirteenth century, and all of it was heavily restored in the nineteenth century. Before the French period it was home to the distinctive Occitan concept of paratage, as well as to the rich culture of the troubadours and the Cathars. The cité was restored from 1853 onwards by the great architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc - narrowly escaping the destruction by Victorian philistines that befell so many other historic European cities. It was added to theUNESCO list of World heritage Sites in 1997. The folk etymology of the name Carcassonne is endearing and widely believed. According to the story a châtelaine of the city, named Carcas, foiled a attempted seige by the Franks or in some versions the Saracenns.
Carcassonne Castle has been featured in several films and television productions. Here are a few notable examples:
"Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" (1991): Carcassonne Castle served as a filming location for this adventure film starring Kevin Costner. It was used as the fictional Nottingham Castle.
"The Visitors" (1993): This French comedy film, directed by Jean-Marie Poiré, features Carcassonne Castle prominently as a medieval setting.
"The Last Templar" (2009): Carcassonne Castle was featured in this television miniseries based on the novel by Raymond Khoury. It served as a significant location representing medieval France.
"Labyrinth" (2012): This historical television miniseries, adapted from the novel by Kate Mosse, used Carcassonne Castle as one of its filming locations.
"The Transporter Refueled" (2015): Carcassonne Castle appeared in this action film as a backdrop for several scenes.
It's worth noting that Carcassonne Castle's distinctive appearance and medieval atmosphere make it a sought-after filming location for productions set in historical or fantasy settings. While these are some notable examples, there may be other films or television shows that have also featured the castle in smaller roles or as part of the scenery.
Kate Mosse is indeed an author famous for writing about Carcassonne. She is a British writer known for her novels that incorporate elements of history, mystery, and the supernatural, often set in the region of Carcassonne in southern France.
Mosse's most well-known work is the "Languedoc Trilogy," which includes the novels "Labyrinth" (2005), "Sepulchre" (2007), and "Citadel" (2012). These books intertwine the stories of modern-day characters with historical events and legends associated with Carcassonne and the surrounding area.
"Labyrinth," the first book in the trilogy, gained significant popularity and introduced readers to the rich history of Carcassonne and the Cathars, a medieval religious sect. The success of the novel helped solidify Mosse's reputation as an author with a deep knowledge and appreciation for the region.
In addition to her works set in Carcassonne, Mosse has also written other novels, including "The Taxidermist's Daughter" (2014) and "The Burning Chambers" (2018), which are set in different historical periods and locations but still maintain her signature blend of history, mystery, and atmosphere.
Kate Mosse's books have resonated with readers who enjoy historical fiction and atmospheric storytelling. Her work has contributed to raising the profile of Carcassonne and the Languedoc region as captivating settings for literature and storytelling.
Carcassonne Castle has attracted numerous famous people over the years due to its historical significance and architectural beauty. While it is challenging to provide an exhaustive list, here are a few notable individuals who have visited Carcassonne Castle:
Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon: The renowned monarchs of Spain visited Carcassonne Castle during their reign in the late 15th century.
Victor Hugo: The famous French author and poet visited Carcassonne in the mid-19th century and was captivated by the castle's medieval charm. His visit inspired him to write about it in his work "Antigonish."
Gustave Nadaud: This prominent French songwriter and poet visited Carcassonne Castle in the 19th century and composed a poem titled "Carcassonne" inspired by the beauty of the castle.
Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir: The renowned French philosophers and writers visited Carcassonne Castle during their travels in the mid-20th century.
Johnny Depp: The Hollywood actor visited Carcassonne Castle while filming the movie "The Ninth Gate" (1999), in which the castle appeared as one of the filming locations.
These are just a few examples of famous individuals who have visited Carcassonne Castle. Its historical significance and picturesque setting have made it an attraction for people from various walks of life, including royalty, artists, writers, and celebrities.
The earliest evidence of settlement in the Carcassonne region dates back to around 3500 BC, with signs of Pre-Roman (Iberian) habitation from the 5th century BC. The hill site of Carsac became an important trading hub by the 6th century BC. The name Carsac itself is Celtic, and the area was fortified by a people known as the Volcae Tectosages. In 122 BC, the Romans invaded the regions we now know as Provence and Languedoc, recognizing Carcassonne's strategic importance. By around 100 BC, the hilltop was fortified, and the settlement became the Roman colonia of Julia Carsaco, later known as Carcasum. The lower sections of the inner ramparts, located to the north, date back to this Gallo-Roman period.
This Roman settlement continued to thrive until the mid-5th century AD, when it, along with Spain, fell to the Visigoths, invaders from the Danube River. In 453, the Visigothic king Theodoric II captured Carcassonne, and in 462, the Romans officially ceded the entire region, Septimania, to the Visigoths. Theodoric strengthened the fortifications, transforming Carcassonne into a frontier post on the northern edge of his kingdom. Some of these fortifications still stand today.
Theodoric, an Arian Christian, is believed to have initiated the construction of a church on the site, which later became the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire in the Cité. In 508, the Visigoths successfully repelled an attack from the Frankish king Clovis, but in 725, the Saracens from Barcelona took Carcassonne. However, the Franks soon returned, and in 759, King Pippin the Younger drove most of the Saracens away. By 760, Pippin had secured much of southern France, though Carcassonne remained unconquered.
Carcassonne remained under Visigoth rule from 460 to 725. During this period, a Visigothic walled city was constructed in the 5th century by Euric I, King of the Visigoths. In 508, the city withstood an attack by Clovis I, King of the Franks, but fell to the Moors (Saracens) in 725. The Moors renamed the city Carchachouna. Around a generation later, in 752, the Moors were replaced by the Carolingian king, Pépin the Short, who successfully captured Carcassonne, making it a Frankish city.
In 1067, Carcassonne became part of the Trencavel family's domain through the marriage of Raymond Bernard Trencavel, Viscount of Albi and Nîmes. Over the following centuries, the Trencavel family alternated alliances with the Counts of Barcelona (later Kings of Aragon) and the House of Toulouse, further shaping the city’s future. It was during this time that the Château Comtal and the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire were constructed. In 1096, Pope Urban II blessed the foundation stones of the new cathedral.
Carcassonne became a significant center of Occitan culture, where literacy flourished, and the troubadour tradition developed, supported by influential patrons such as the Trencavel family.
The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire (Basilique Saint-Nazaire) is a stunning church located in the heart of Carcassonne's medieval Cité. It is known for its impressive blend of architectural styles, reflecting the city's rich history. The basilica was originally constructed in the 11th century, though its current form largely dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. The church is dedicated to Saint Nazaire, one of the early Christian martyrs, and it is an essential part of the area's spiritual and cultural heritage.
The basilica's Romanesque foundations are combined with Gothic additions, most notably the stained-glass windows, which are some of the finest examples of Gothic art in France. These vibrant windows depict biblical scenes and are a highlight for visitors, particularly when sunlight streams through them, casting a beautiful light across the interior.
The church’s interior features a remarkable vaulted ceiling, intricately decorated chapels, and a majestic altar. The choir stalls and wooden pulpit add to the basilica’s historical charm. One of its key features is the crypt, which houses the remains of Saint Nazaire and other important figures.
The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical monument, offering a glimpse into the medieval past of Carcassonne. Its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere make it one of the city’s most cherished landmarks.
Carcassonne Castle, also known as the Carcassonne Citadel or Cité de Carcassonne, is not the largest castle in Europe. While it is an impressive and extensive fortified complex, there are several other castles in Europe that surpass it in terms of size.
One example of a larger castle in Europe is Malbork Castle in Poland. Malbork Castle is the largest brick castle in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its complex covers a vast area and includes multiple buildings, courtyards, and fortifications.
Another notable example is Prague Castle in the Czech Republic. Prague Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the world and covers an expansive area in the heart of Prague. It includes various historical buildings, palaces, churches, and gardens.
Although Carcassonne Castle is not the largest in Europe, it is still highly regarded for its architectural significance and well-preserved medieval fortifications. It remains a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of medieval heritage in the region.
The local wine produced in the Carcassonne region is called "Corbières." Corbières is an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) wine, which means it is a protected designation of origin and must meet specific criteria to bear that name.
Corbières wines are predominantly red and are made from a blend of grape varieties, including Carignan, Grenache, Syrah (Shiraz), and Mourvèdre. These wines are known for their rich flavors, often displaying characteristics of dark fruits, spices, and herbs. They can range from medium-bodied to full-bodied, depending on the specific blend and winemaking techniques.
Corbières is one of the most renowned wine regions in the Languedoc-Roussillon area of southern France. Its close proximity to Carcassonne makes it an accessible and popular choice for visitors to enjoy local wines while exploring the region.
Dining in Carcassonne Castle offers a unique experience, with a wide range of restaurants offering a variety of local and regional French dishes. Within the walls of the historic Cité, you'll find eateries that combine the charm of medieval surroundings with modern culinary delights, making it an unforgettable part of your visit.
Local Carcassonne Castle restaurants serve an array of traditional Languedoc cuisine, with highlights such as Cassoulet, Foie Gras, Magret de Canard, and Duck Ham (Jambon de Canard). Many of the restaurants pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to taste the true flavors of the region. Whether you're looking for a hearty, rustic meal or a refined dining experience, the selection caters to a variety of tastes.
In addition to regional specialties, you'll also find restaurants offering French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, giving visitors a broader range of flavors. For those looking to pair their meals with fine wines, the Corbières, Minervois, and Fitou wines are commonly featured on menus, reflecting the rich wine culture of the region.
Whether you choose a cozy bistro with a view of the castle's ramparts or a more sophisticated venue with gourmet offerings, dining in Carcassonne Castle is a wonderful way to enjoy the local culture and cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking medieval atmosphere.
There are several restaurants within the walls of the Carcassonne Castle, known as La Cité de Carcassonne, that offer a unique dining experience. Some popular options include:
Le Donjon: This restaurant is located within the castle walls and offers traditional French cuisine, with a menu that changes seasonally. They also offer a great selection of wines.
La Table de l'Echauguette: This restaurant is located inside the castle walls, offering a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside. The menu is based on traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
Le Jardin de l'Eveque: This restaurant is located in the heart of the castle and offers a terrace with a view of the castle walls. They offer a variety of dishes with Mediterranean influence, including seafood and meat dishes, as well as vegetarian options.
Le Comptoir de la Cité: This is a Brasserie located inside the castle walls, offering a range of French and international dishes, and a good selection of wines.
La Belle Époque: This is a restaurant located near the castle, offering traditional French dishes with a contemporary twist, in a charming setting.
These are just a few examples and it's best to check online reviews and availability before booking. Keep in mind that some restaurants may be closed or have limited capacity during some periods of the year.
The historical division between the Ville Basse and the walled Cité of Carcassonne dates back to 1240. At that time, the townspeople had attempted to restore their ruling family, the Trencavels, but Louis IX swiftly expelled them. They were allowed to return only on the condition that they resided on the lower ground near the River Aude.
Gastronomically, Cassoulet is the region's most famous dish. However, the area is also renowned for its other delicacies such as Foie Gras, Daube, Magret, and Jambon de Canard. The wines of the region, including those from the Corbières, Minervois, and Fitou appellations, are also highly regarded. These culinary delights can be enjoyed at various local restaurants, many of which are situated within the historic Carcassonne Castle.
The Canal du Midi is a remarkable feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage site that passes through Carcassonne. Here's a description of the Canal du Midi in Carcassonne:
The Canal du Midi is a man-made canal that stretches from the city of Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. It was constructed in the 17th century, during the reign of Louis XIV, to provide a navigable waterway for transportation and trade. The canal played a significant role in connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, bypassing the treacherous Cape of Good Hope route.
In Carcassonne, the Canal du Midi runs alongside the fortified city, enhancing its picturesque setting. The canal gracefully meanders through the landscape, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding beauty. It adds a touch of tranquility to the bustling city and offers visitors a peaceful retreat.
Lined with plane trees, the canal's banks provide shaded pathways perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides. Alongside the towpath, there are charming locks, bridges, and historic structures that contribute to the canal's unique character. The locks, known as écluses, were designed to overcome the differences in elevation along the canal, allowing boats to navigate smoothly.
The Canal du Midi in Carcassonne is a popular spot for boating enthusiasts, and you can often see pleasure boats and barges leisurely gliding along the water. It offers a different perspective of the city, allowing visitors to appreciate its medieval splendor from a unique vantage point.
The canal also serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Many people enjoy picnicking, fishing, or simply relaxing along its banks, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty. It creates a serene atmosphere, providing a sense of harmony between nature and the city's historical surroundings.
Overall, the Canal du Midi in Carcassonne adds a touch of enchantment and serenity to the cityscape. It is a cherished feature that contributes to the overall allure and charm of Carcassonne, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its peaceful waters and picturesque surroundings.
The Canal du Midi is a historic waterway in southern France, stretching over 240 kilometers from Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal was completed in the late 17th century under the direction of engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet, and it is considered one of the greatest feats of engineering of its time. It was originally built to provide a navigable route for trade, linking the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean, bypassing the long and treacherous route around the Iberian Peninsula.
The canal meanders through picturesque landscapes, including lush vineyards, charming villages, and shaded avenues of trees. It’s lined with bridges, locks, and stunning stone structures, many of which are still in use today. Along its route, the canal passes through several historic towns and regions, including Carcassonne, Béziers, and Narbonne, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Today, the Canal du Midi is a popular destination for leisurely boat cruises, cycling, and walking. The tranquil waterway provides a peaceful setting for exploring the natural beauty and rich history of the Languedoc region, making it a must-visit for those traveling through southern France.
The Carcassonne Farmers Market, located in the heart of the town, is a vibrant and bustling hub where locals and visitors alike can experience the fresh and authentic flavors of the Aude region. Open several days a week, the market offers an array of locally grown produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods, all sourced from the surrounding rural areas.
At the market, you’ll find a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, cheeses, meats, and seafood, much of it harvested or produced by small-scale local farmers and producers. The region’s renowned specialties, such as Cassoulet, Foie Gras, and local wines from Corbières and Minervois, are also on offer. Many of the stalls feature organic and sustainably sourced products, reflecting the growing trend of conscious consumption in the area.
The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with vendors happily sharing their knowledge and passion for their goods. The market is a perfect place to enjoy the authentic tastes of Languedoc, pick up unique souvenirs, or simply experience the local culture. Whether you’re stocking up on fresh ingredients for a picnic, looking for a special gift, or just soaking in the sights and sounds, the Carcassonne Farmers Market is a delightful destination for food lovers and those wanting to taste the essence of the region.
Carcassonne is known for its vibrant farmers' market, which offers a diverse array of fresh local produce, regional specialties, and artisanal products. Here's an overview of the Carcassonne farmers' market:
The market takes place in the heart of the city, near the Place Carnot, which is the central square of Carcassonne. It is typically held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, although it's always a good idea to double-check the specific market days and hours as they may vary.
At the Carcassonne farmers' market, you'll find an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, sourced directly from local farmers and growers. The market is a celebration of seasonal produce, so you can expect to find an ever-changing selection of items depending on the time of year. From succulent tomatoes and colorful berries to fragrant herbs and aromatic spices, the market offers a feast for the senses.
In addition to fruits and vegetables, the market features stalls with regional specialties and traditional products. You'll find an array of cheese, charcuterie (cured meats), olives, honey, jams, and freshly baked bread. Local winemakers may also showcase their wines for tastings and purchases, allowing you to experience the flavors of the region firsthand.
The market is not just about food; it also offers a variety of non-food items. You can browse through stalls selling handmade crafts, textiles, pottery, and unique souvenirs. It's a great opportunity to find locally crafted treasures and gifts to take home.
The Carcassonne farmers' market is a bustling and lively gathering place, where locals and visitors come together to shop, socialize, and savor the best of the region's produce. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with vendors, and indulge in the flavors of Carcassonne.
Visiting the farmers' market in Carcassonne provides an authentic and enjoyable experience, allowing you to discover the region's gastronomic delights and support local producers. It's a must-visit for food enthusiasts and anyone seeking a taste of the vibrant culinary scene in Carcassonne.
Carcassonne has a vibrant farmers market, where you can find a wide variety of local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese, bread, and more. The market is held weekly on different days depending on the area of the city, and it's a great opportunity to discover the local products, culture and to get in touch with the locals.
Place Carnot: This is the main market square in Carcassonne, where a farmers market is held every Saturday morning. You can find a wide variety of local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese, bread, and more.
Place Saint-Vincent: This market is held on Wednesday morning, and it is smaller than the one in Place Carnot, but still offers a good selection of fresh local produce.
Place de la Republic: This market is held on Tuesday morning, and it is also smaller than the one in Place Carnot, but still offers a good selection of fresh local produce.
It is best to check with the local tourism office for the most up-to-date information on market days and times. Visiting a farmers market is a great way to get a taste of the local culture and to support local farmers and producers.