City of Carcassonne is the largest medieval town in Europe and its walls are completely intact.

This castle city is famous for its 53 watchtowers and double-walled fortifications creating a massive structure with defenses all around.

1. Cite de Carcassonne – Ensemble a l’Quest

(View of the City of Carcassonne from the West.)

Click here to Download Free .pdf of this picture

Its strength had a lot to do with the strategic location as well. It dates back to the late 13th century to early 14th century making it well over 700 years old! During that time, it has seen its share of battles and fortifications. It was ultimately restored by architect Eugene Violet-de-Duc in 1853 and added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in the late 1990s.

The city of Carassonne in 12 pictures – souvenir packet.

Now, it’s a tourist destination and has been for a long time.

These old photographs of Carcassonne are small but beautiful!

The color is just as I have scanned it. Not a typical black and white but a brilliant sepia tone!

Castles hold a dear place in all of our hearts because they represent power and stability. So, if you are a huge fan of castles, then why wouldn’t you be intrigued by a whole city? The fact that these structures exist at all is what fascinates me the most. Also, the realization that someone had the power to create it and then defend it during medieval times makes me want to know the whole story. If only these massive walls could talk!

The backside of this souvenir packet has a description of the photos inside.

(Please note: My translations of these names/words may not be correct. I am only using the internet as my guide. Please feel free to email me at: printfromvintage@gmail.com to help me correct any translations that I attempt below. Thank you in advance!)