Visiting Carcassonne and its medieval town

Carcassonne, a legendary UNESCO World Heritage city, where history comes to life with every step. Imagine walking the ramparts of a fortified city, knights in armor and elegant ladies in typical medieval costumes, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the atmosphere of this medieval city.

Founded in Gallo-Roman times, Carcassonne has had a tumultuous history, marked by sieges, battles and conquests. Today, Carcassonne is a must-see destination in Occitanie for lovers of history, culture and architecture. Stroll the ramparts and admire the panoramic view over the town and its surroundings, visit the Château Comtal and discover its historical treasures, or let yourself be transported by the Basilique Saint-Nazaire and its architectural gems.

Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture or simply looking for a unique getaway, Carcassonne has something for you.

Ramparts and fortifications, history of the city: A journey through time to the heart of the Cité de Carcassonne

From tumultuous origins to impregnable stronghold

The Cité de Carcassonne, as we know it today, is the fruit of a long history marked by sieges, battles and conquests. Its origins date back to Gallo-Roman times, when the town was a simple fortified oppidum(1). Over the centuries, it was coveted by many powers, including the Visigoths, Arabs and Crusaders, as an obligatory crossing point between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It was from the 12th century onwards that the city reached its apogee, becoming an impregnable stronghold thanks to the construction of its imposing ramparts. A major restoration phase took place in the 19th century, under the direction of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc (1814-1879), a renowned French architect renowned for his restoration of numerous historic monuments.

⁽¹⁾ A typical fortified city of Roman Gaul, built on a hill.

La cité médiévale de Carcassonne – ©Ludovic Charles

A masterpiece of military architecture

The ramparts of the Cité de Carcassonne stretch for 3.4 kilometers, rise to heights of 10 to 12 meters and include 52 towers, some of which are open to the public for tours. They offer breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings. Built of limestone, they are a veritable masterpiece of military architecture, bearing witness to the skills of medieval builders. 4 main gates, located at the 4 points of the compass, provide access to the fortified town:

Porte du Bourg (or Porte de Rodez): the oldest, dating back to Gallo-Roman times, located to the north and once leading to the town of Rodez.
Porte Narbonnaise: the most imposing, built in the 13th century and the main entrance to the east.
Porte Saint-Nazaire: Gothic in style, with sculpted decorations, this gateway leads south to the Trivium district, the city’s former religious center, and above all to the Cathedral of Saint-Nazaire.
Porte d’Aude: located to the west, close to the Château Comtal, it provided access to the river of the same name.

Discover the secrets of the Cité

As you walk the ramparts of the Cité de Carcassonne, you’ll feel transported to the heart of medieval history. Imagine knights in armor patrolling the battlements, archers scanning the horizon for enemies, and lords strategizing in the towers. Numerous themed guided tours will help you discover the secrets of the Cité de Carcassonne and its fortifications. Learn more about the city’s history, the techniques used to build its ramparts, the daily life of its inhabitants in the Middle Ages, and the great battles that took place within its walls.

An unforgettable trip for the whole family

A visit to the ramparts and fortifications of the Cité de Carcassonne is an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Children will marvel at the medieval atmosphere and stories of knights and dragons, while adults will appreciate the architectural beauty and fascinating history of the city. A journey back in time awaits you, in the heart of this legendary city.

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Visit the Château Comtal and the Basilique Saint-Nazaire: Architectural and spiritual treasures of the Cité de Carcassonne

The Château Comtal, a symbol of power and prestige

Built in the 12th century, the Château Comtal was the residence of the Viscounts of Carcassonne and the Counts of Trencavel. Featuring Romanesque and Gothic architecture, this imposing monument has become a true symbol of the city’s prestige and power, thanks in particular to the Pinte Tower, the city’s highest watchtower, its ceremonial rooms and its keep, which offer a panoramic view of the city.

A journey through the city’s history

The Château Comtal’s temporary exhibitions are a regular addition to the permanent tour, allowing you to deepen your knowledge of specific themes in the history of Carcassonne. You can discover the great figures who have marked the city’s history, the battles and sieges it has endured, its evolution over the centuries and much more.

The Château also houses a lapidary museum.

>> Book your visit

The Basilique Saint-Nazaire, “a jewel of Romanesque art

Located in the heart of the Cité de Carcassonne, the Basilique Saint-Nazaire (formerly the Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire, until 1801) is a religious edifice of great beauty. Completed in the 12th century, it is a remarkable example of the harmonious coexistence of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with its flamboyant stained glass windows, finely crafted sculptures and cloister.

A journey through the city’s history

Restored many times over in the 19th century by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, the magnificent chapels, ornate altars and venerated relics of the town’s patron saints, Saint-Nazaire and Saint-Celse, bear witness to the religious importance of this sacred site. You can attend religious services or simply meditate in the silence of this sumptuous church steeped in history.

A visit to the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire is a must for art and history lovers. You’ll marvel at the beauty of its architecture and discover a place steeped in history and spirituality.

For further information: Carcassonne tourist office

Intérieur de la Basilique Saint Nazaire – ©Warpedgalerie

Light shows on the ramparts: an unforgettable nocturnal enchantment

Every evening, as soon as night falls, the ramparts of the Cité de Carcassonne are transformed into a giant screen for a magical light show. This grandiose show, entitled “Remparts et Lumières”, retraces the history of the town and highlights its emblematic monuments.

A journey through time in images:

This light show takes you on a visual journey through time. You’ll discover the tumultuous history of the town from its Gallo-Roman origins to the present day, illustrated by light projections. This sound and light journey through time will transport you to the heart of the medieval history that has shaped the soul of Carcassonne. Set off from the Porte Narbonnaise along the city’s ramparts to the Cour d’Honneur of the Château Comtal.

A show for the whole family:

This immersive journey is fun for all the family. Let yourself be carried away by the magic and enjoy an unforgettable family moment to round off your day of sightseeing. The show will leave you with unforgettable memories of your stay in the legendary medieval city of Carcassonne, before you return to your B&B.

Practical information

Period: Mid-July to early September
Times: Every evening, from sunset onwards
Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (~500 meters)
Booking: Recommended, especially in high season. You can book online on the Carcassonne tourist office website or directly on site.
Don’t forget to check the light show timetable before your visit.

Where to stay to visit Carcassonne?

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