Cities, Forts, and Abbeys

Carcassonne city is just a few kilometers west of us and should be on your list. It is an ancient walled city that has been extensively restored during the 19th and 20th Centuries. The site was used by the Romans (1st Century AD) and later the Visigoths (5th Century AD), and is reputed to be the greatest fortress in Europe. Worth a whole day out.

Ancient City of Carcassonne

There are other restored forts, abbeys, and walled towns in the region worth visiting. Here are a couple of nearby sites:

Abbey Fontfroide (Cistercian)

It's tucked away up a dirt track, surrounded by cypress trees and gardens. Beautifully restored.

Fort de Salses

Craftsmen are still restoring the fort with original techniques and materials.

(Photographs © 1972, 1994, 1998 R Taylor)

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