Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a city in France’s region of Occitania, which features a large medieval castle, early Roman fortifications, and sits in a geographically strategic location near the Mediterranean.
History
Carcassonne is believed by archaeologist to have been established sometime around 3500 BC. Since its inception, it is believed to have been inhabited by various groups such as the Romans, Visigoths, Gauls, and later the Crusaders. Gallic tribes are believed to have been the first to develop a notable settlement in the area. Over the course of a few hundred years, the Gauls and Romans would both occupy the region, until sometime in the 3rd century AD the Romans would develop fortifications and bring the region under Roman rule. Sometime around 5th century AD the Western Roman empire would collapse and the Visigoths would come occupy the region along with much of the Iberian Peninsula. Visigoth control would remain until 711 with the death of King Roderic (Rodrigo) who was killed by Islamic forces of the Umayyad Caliphate in the Battle of Guadalete.
Carcassonne would remain under Islamic rule until when Bernard Ato IV retook the city in 1125.
Geography
This location in France, served as a strategic post, being near the Mediterranean and near Spain. The city sits relatively close to both Spain and Andora, Europe's smallest country located in the Alps.
The Citadel
The castle is known as La Cité, or the citadel, and features Roman fortifications and industrial components dating back to 1st century AD. The citadel features a dry moat and multiple watch towers. Today, the citadel is one of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France, and operates as both a public archaeological exhibit and residence within the castle walls.
