The first part of our journey takes us to Carcassonne!
The colourful south of France is rightly considered one of the country's most popular regions for sightseeing, and Carcassonne is certainly no exception.
The origins of the city's name are even more mysterious than those of its fortress — a true “book written in stone” and one of the most remarkable fortifications in the region.
The complex is so vast that it is more accurate to call it Cité de Carcassonne — essentially, a city within a city.
The first references to this area date back to the Roman Empire, when the Romans called it Carcasso. Yet many visitors prefer the famous medieval legend, according to which a soldier besieging the city supposedly called out to its ruler: “Carcas te sonne!”
The long and fascinating history of Carcassonne remembers not only the period of Roman rule and the arrival of the Moors in southern France, but also events that could have changed the religious map of Europe.
The city became an important stronghold of the Cathar movement, whose followers considered themselves true Christians and found refuge within the citadel during the Albigensian Crusade.
Unfortunately, the centuries were not kind to Carcassonne. After countless conflicts, disasters and epidemics, the fortress fell into decline. Its revival began in the 19th century, largely thanks to the famous French writer and historian Prosper Mérimée, who played an important role in bringing attention to the city's historic heritage.
Today, the Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Europe.
Throughout the journey to Carcassonne, your guide will provide an engaging introduction to the history and heritage of the region. Once there, you will enjoy at least 1 hour of guided walking through the citadel, followed by no less than 2 hours of free time to explore Carcassonne at your own pace.