Carcassonne, Occitania, France
Carcassonne is a historic fortified city in southern France, located in the Occitanie region. Its centerpiece is the medieval citadel, known as La Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The city’s history dates back to Roman times, with many of its current fortifications built during the 12th and 13th centuries. Visitors are drawn to its double walls, 52 towers, and narrow cobblestone streets filled with shops and restaurants. The Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus is another highlight, showcasing Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. Beyond the citadel, Carcassonne offers a charming lower town and proximity to the Canal du Midi, ideal for exploring.
Parkings in Carcassonne
Here is a list of parking lots located near the medieval city in Carcassonne:
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1. Parking P0 – Narbonne Gate
GPS: 43.206165, 2.367623
Description: Parking located at the Narbonne Gate, offering parking spaces for a maximum of 2 hours. The fee is €1 per 15 minutes; for stays up to 12 hours – €0.50 per 45 minutes. A fixed night rate (from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM) is €3.
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2. Parking P1 – Narbonne Gate
GPS: 43.206806, 2.367724
Description: Located near the Narbonne Gate, it offers similar rates to P0: €1 per 15 minutes up to 2 hours, and for stays up to 12 hours – €0.50 per 45 minutes. Free of charge at night from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
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Parking at Place Gaston Jourdanne
GPS: 43.210516, 2.360562
Description: Free parking located approximately 800 meters from the Narbonne Gate, the main entrance to the medieval citadel in Carcassonne. During the tourist season, the number of spaces is limited, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. The parking lot is conveniently located for those planning to visit La Cité, offering a pleasant walk through the scenic surroundings of the city. Additionally, nearby are electric vehicle charging stations, making it eco-friendly for e-mobility users. However, note that in peak tourist season, availability may be limited, so consider alternative parking options or using public transport.
Discovering the Charm of Carcassonne
Welcome to Carcassonne - the historic heart of Occitania! Our journey begins at the legendary citadel, La Cité de Carcassonne. It is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, and its impressive walls are visible from afar. Let us head towards the Narbonne Gate (A; GPS: 43.20687264, 2.36556835), the main entrance to the city. Notice the tall gate towers that once served to protect against invasions. This place has witnessed many battles, and every brick has its own story.
We pass through the massive double defensive walls, which are a unique example of medieval military architecture. Two rings of walls, stretching over 3 kilometers, encircle the citadel like a solid cocoon. Let’s pause for a moment at one of the viewpoints. From here, we can see the valley of the Aude River and picturesque hills. This is where we truly understand why Carcassonne was so strategically important through the ages.
Let’s continue along the cobblestone streets of the citadel, filled with the atmosphere of bygone times. On the left, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus (B; GPS: 43.20530602, 2.363009863) comes into view. This majestic building dates back to the 11th century and combines Romanesque solidity with Gothic elegance. Pay attention to the intricate sculptures decorating the entrance portal – they depict biblical scenes meant to educate the faithful at a time when most people could not read. Inside the basilica, you will be amazed by the beautiful stained glass windows, through which colorful light creates a magical ambiance.
As we continue our walk, we pass numerous shops and restaurants. Take note of the local artisans’ products – from ceramics to jewelry and traditional fabrics. It’s a great opportunity to take a piece of Carcassonne home as a souvenir. If you feel hungry, try cassoulet – a stew made with beans, sausage, and meat. This dish is not only delicious but also tells the story of a region where life revolved around simple yet nourishing meals.
Now we arrive at Comtal Castle (C; GPS: 43.20724288, 2.3633261001), the defensive heart of the citadel. Step into the courtyard and imagine the daily lives of the castle’s inhabitants – from guards to artisans and cooks. Inside the castle, there is a museum that unveils the secrets of the past, from archaeological artifacts to models showing how the castle looked in different eras. Walking along the castle walls, you’ll feel the wind of history. The panorama from here is breathtaking – you can see both the entire citadel and the modern city stretching out in the distance.
At the end of our tour, let us exit through the Aude Gate (D; GPS: 43.20621154, 2.3624945510), leading us to the lower part of the city, known as Bastide Saint-Louis. While less spectacular than the citadel, it has its unique charm. Stroll through the wide streets and discover charming squares like Place Carnot (E; GPS: 43.21316566, 2.3517947238), where locals gather to enjoy meals or coffee. The atmosphere here is calmer but equally authentic. Finally, relax by the fountain in the square, watching the everyday life of the residents.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through Carcassonne. We hope that even by reading this text, you felt the magic of this place and are inspired to visit it yourself to witness this magnificent historic town with your own eyes!
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