If you are looking for a place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of medieval France, you might want to visit the forteresse in Carcassonne, a spectacular fortified city in the Occitanie region.
The forteresse, or citadel, is one of the best preserved examples of a medieval fortified town in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. It has a long and fascinating history that spans more than two millennia, from the Gallo-Roman period to the present day.
The origins of the forteresse date back to the 3rd century CE, when the Romans built a fortified town on a hill overlooking the river Aude. In the 12th century, the town became the seat of the Trencavel family, the vicomtes of Carcassonne, who ruled over a large territory in southern France.
The forteresse reached its peak of development in the 13th and 14th centuries, under the rule of the kings of France, who added a second wall and more towers to the fortifications. The forteresse was also the scene of several wars and rebellions, such as the War of the Pyrenees, the Hundred Years’ War, and the Wars of Religion. In the 17th century, the forteresse lost its strategic importance, and was gradually abandoned by its inhabitants. By the 19th century, the forteresse was in a state of decay, and was threatened with demolition.
Fortunately, the forteresse was saved by the efforts of a local historian, Jean-Pierre Cros-Mayrevieille, who campaigned for its preservation and restoration. He was supported by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who was in charge of the restoration project from 1853 to 1879. Viollet-le-Duc restored the forteresse to its medieval appearance.
Today, the forteresse in Carcassonne is a major tourist attraction, visited by millions of people every year. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of medieval France, through its impressive architecture and its rich collections of art and artifacts.
The forteresse also hosts various events and activities, such as guided tours, exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and fireworks.
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