Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fortified town located in Languedoc in the south of France. The hill here has been inhabited since about 3,500 B.C. The hilltop was fortified by the Romans around 100 B.C. In the 11th Century A.D. - and subsequently - the extensive fortifications that we see today were constructed. Simon de Montfort captured Carcassonne in 1209 during the Albigensian crusade, forcing the citizens to surrender. Carcassonne then became a border citadel between France and Spain. When we visited in 1999, we were impressed by the excellent condition of the fortress and by the lady who acted as our guide. She was very pleasant and knowledgeable, and took us on an extensive tour of the site.
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