The medieval city of Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a fortified city in the South of France in the Aude department. It's is one of the
largest still nearly complete fortified cities in the world from medieval times. In 1853 theorist and architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc restored the fortress. It gained a spot on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997. It is a major tourist attraction these days drawing large crowds. It has
featured in many literary works including a book by English author Kate Mosse.
History of the city
Carcassonne is located in the region that saw the most fierce battles between Catholics and "heretics". It's history dates back to 3500 BC when there were Neolithic settlements near which is now Carcassonne. The 6th century saw the area turn into an important trading place, occupied by Celtic people. In the early 13th century Carcassonne hosts people from several religions, including Catholics, Jews and Cathars. Although this was accepted by it's inhabitants, major Catholic cities in the region were weary of the situation. They looked down on the strange tolerance the rulers of Carcassonne practiced. In 1209 the crusade begins and the city falls to the crusaders, who
put
Simon de Montfort in power. The former viscount, Trencavel, was murdered.
Trencavel's brave son tries several times to retake the city in 1240, but each try results in failure.
Around 1247 the new kings of France strengthen the city as well as other important cities in the region. In 1348 another enemy invaded the city, this time the Big Black Plague. It decreased
the city's population dramatically. 7 Years later the lower town of Carcassonne is burned completely by the Black Prince. In 1382 the population rebels against an increase in taxes.
In 1531 protestantism spreads in the languedoc region. The main town remained Catholic, but the lower part of town converter to protestantism. Clashes and conflicts were inevitable. The unity
of the town was at stake. In 1582 the lower part of town receives the title of "ville". Competition
between the 2 parts of town becomes extreme.
The Treaty of Pyrenees in 1659 basically ends the important power of Carcassonne. The region
becomes a part of France. The city loses it's military and and strategic importance.
The late 17th century transferred the town into an important economic center once again, the lower
town grows rapidly with new mansions popping up to house the wealthy merchants. In 1800 the
two parts of town merge and become one unified city. Today Carcassonne receives over 3
million visitors each year, ensuring it's survival as beautiful medieval fortifications.