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Cité de Carcassonne (The Walled Town of Carcassonne) Description: Set on a hillside allowing extensive views over the Pyrénées mountains and the surrounding countryside, the medieval town of Carcassonne, which is the largest former fortress in Europe, dates back to the Roman Empire. The ramparts were built during the fourth century, whilst the château was built during the 12th century by Vicomte Trencavel. The town was invaded by Charlemagne during the eighth century, and is named after the Grand Dame of Carcas, the town’s widowed Moorish Queen, who rushed to its defence, ringing the town’s bell (Carcas a sonné les cloches) to indicate her victory over the invader. Carcassonne was captured by Simon de Montfort during the Crusade against the Albigenses in the 13th century and an outer wall was constructed, along with an inner rampart, to strengthen the fortress’s position. Carcassonne quickly became one of the most important symbols of Royal Power in France due to its geographical location, although it lost its strategic importance in 1659 when the Treaty of the Pyrenees was drawn up, ending France’s war with Spain. The town was renovated and restored during the 19th century by the architects Eugène Viollet-le-Duc and Paul Boeswillwald, giving it back some of its former glory and importance. Today, the town, which is beautifully lit up at night, remains an impressive site despite its heavy tourist presence; the main attractions within the city’s walls are the Château Domtal, which was transformed into a citadel in around 1226, the Cour du Midi remains of a Gallo-Roman villa, and the torture chamber at the Exposition Internationale. Visitors can also see the Musée International de Dessin Animé and the Basilique St Nazaire. Contact Addresses: Cité de Carcassonne, Château Vicomtal, Monument National, 11000 Carcassonne, France Tel: (04) 6811 7077. Fax: (04) 6811 7071. E-mail: colin@monuments-france.fr Website: www.carcassonne.culture.fr Transportation: Air: Carcassonne Salvaza Airport. Water: Boat: Cruise and leisure boats have moorings along the Canal du Midi just after Carcassonne lock. Rail: Train: Carcassonne Station. Road: Car: N9, D213, A9, A61 and N113 (from Narbonne) or A620, A61, N161, D118 and N113 (from Toulouse). Opening Times: Daily 0930-1700 (Nov-Mar); daily 0930-1800 (Apr, May and Oct); daily 0930-1930 (Jun-Sep). Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 1 Nov, 11 Nov and 25 Dec. Admission Fees: Free entry onto city walls. 
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