Do you need tickets to visit Carcassonne?
After a temporary shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, Carcassonne Castle is now open and free to explore again! Having braved wars, politics, religions, and occupations through the centuries, the walls of this castle survived the test of time (and humanity).
Why was the Carcassonne castle built?
Carcassonne became a border fortress between France and the Crown of Aragon under the 1258 Treaty of Corbeil. King Louis IX founded the new part of the town across the river. He and his successor Philip III built the outer ramparts. Contemporary opinion still considered the fortress impregnable.
Is Carcassonne a real place?
Carcassonne, town, capital of Aude département, Occitanie region, southwestern France, southeast of Toulouse, near the eastward bend of the Aude River, which divides the city into two towns, the Ville Basse and the Cité. The Cité has the finest remains of medieval fortifications in Europe.
How much time do you need in Carcassonne?
If you have the time, spend at least 3-5 nights in Carcassonne. You won’t be rushed and you’ll have plenty of time to see the town and the area.
How long do you need to visit Carcassonne?
To visit this medieval city, you will need 1 day or 2 days. If you need some tips visiting Carcassonne, you will find in this article plenty of attractions to do: the walled city and the old town, also called citadel, the castle and its ramparts…
Who lived in Carcassonne castle?
Early history. Founded during the Gallo-Roman period, the citadel derives its reputation from its 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) long double surrounding walls interspersed by 52 towers. The town has about 2,500 years of history and has been occupied in different ages by Romans, Visigoths and Crusaders.
How do I get to Carcassonne?
Also, you can get to Carcassonne by TGV from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux. Additionally, many TER and Intercité trains grant you acces to nearby cities like Narbonne, Limoux, or Perpignan. Night trains in the direction of or coming from Paris also make a stop at the Carcassonne train station.
Can you drive into Carcassonne?
If you plan on renting a car, driving to Carcassonne is a great option and allows you the freedom to see more of southern France. Cars are not allowed inside the Medieval City and there are several parking lots outside, including one partly reserved for hotel guests staying inside the ramparts.
What is there to do in Carcassonne on Sunday?
Top Attractions in Carcassonne Center
- Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne. 9,903. Historic Sites • Neighborhoods.
- Chateau et Remparts de la Cite de Carcassonne. 6,414.
- Chateau Comtal. 920.
- Église Saint-Nazaire. 1,940.
- Cathar Castles. 834.
- Lac de Cavayere. 595.
- Le Parc Australien. 521.
- Le Pont Vieux (The Old Bridge) 396.
What does a Carcassonne Castle ticket include?
Thanks to one of Europe’s largest restoration projects in 1853 by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, your Carcassonne Castle ticket includes a visit inside the castle! The interior of the castle is adorned with Roman, Romanesque, and Gothic architectural treasures, embellished by ancient frescoes.
What is the history of Carcassone in France?
Carcassone was the seat of power of the Counts of Carcassonne, and then of the famous Trencavel family in the 12th century. Following the Albigensian Crusade (1209-1229), when the Royal forces seized Carcassonne, accusing it of complicity with the Cathars, it became a Royal fortress governed by a seneschal.
Does the Château Comtal de Carcassonne include hotel transfers?
This is a self-guided tour and the ticket does not include hotel transfers. The ticket cannot be canceled, amended or rescheduled. The Château Comtal de Carcassonne is a landmark you cannot miss; from wars and plagues to celebrations and epic love stories, the walls of this castle have seen it all.
What should I know before visiting Carcassonne?
– It is recommended that you make payments by credit card. – Be mindful of the barrier signs and make sure to maintain social distancing. Once claimed by Romans, Visigoths, Saracens, and Crusaders, the citadel of Carcassonne is an absolute must-visit for history buffs.