
While visiting the Languedoc region in 2008, we made a point to visit the incredible medieval fortress of Carcassonne. This is an amazing double fortified town with 52 towers dating back originally to the 5th century. It is now recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We spent an entire afternoon there wandering through the cobblestone streets and marveling at the massive town that is surrounded by a double ring of walls, more than 3 km long. We couldn't possibly see everything but with the assistance of an audio guide, enjoyed seeing the many churches, the market, the mansions and the cathedral. Every corner we turned showed us another incredible sight for us to take in.
The kids had a great time peering through intricately carved windows and exploring long windy tunnels that led them to new places to discover. Walking along the walls and seeing the awesome construction really was a treat. And of course we checked out the shops and cafes along the main street.
Check out what travel guru Rick Steves has to say about the general construction of the walled town and some brief history.
We spent an entire afternoon there wandering through the cobblestone streets and marveling at the massive town that is surrounded by a double ring of walls, more than 3 km long. We couldn't possibly see everything but with the assistance of an audio guide, enjoyed seeing the many churches, the market, the mansions and the cathedral. Every corner we turned showed us another incredible sight for us to take in.
The kids had a great time peering through intricately carved windows and exploring long windy tunnels that led them to new places to discover. Walking along the walls and seeing the awesome construction really was a treat. And of course we checked out the shops and cafes along the main street.
Check out what travel guru Rick Steves has to say about the general construction of the walled town and some brief history.
On our way out the kids had a spin on the antique carousel. Kind of touristy but fun anyways.
We throughly enjoyed this site and will plan to visit again now that our apartment is only a 1 1/2 hour drive. We recommend saving at least a day to explore this incredible sight. It is known as Europe's largest castle and well worth your time to dive back into history.
There is plenty to do in the Carcassonne area. For more information visit the Tourist Office website at: http://www.carcassonne.org/carcassonne_en.nsf/vuetitre/docpgeintrovisiter
We throughly enjoyed this site and will plan to visit again now that our apartment is only a 1 1/2 hour drive. We recommend saving at least a day to explore this incredible sight. It is known as Europe's largest castle and well worth your time to dive back into history.
There is plenty to do in the Carcassonne area. For more information visit the Tourist Office website at: http://www.carcassonne.org/carcassonne_en.nsf/vuetitre/docpgeintrovisiter