[2025 Carcassonne Attraction] Travel Guide for Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse (Updated Jul)

#Sign up for December Hotel Tester Carcassonne, a name located in Aude in southern France, is like an ancient ballad, echoing in my heart. It is not just a city, but also a living medieval castle, a miracle that perfectly blends history, culture, nature and modern life. My trip to Carcassonne far exceeded my expectations. It was a feast across time and space, a baptism of the senses and soul, and a profound reflection on history, culture and life. The moment I arrived in Carcassonne, I was struck by its magnificent city walls. The towering city walls, sturdy towers, and red brick city gates all seem to be telling ancient stories. The sunlight shining on the red city wall, set against the blue sky and white clouds, creates a stunning picture. The air is filled with a heavy sense of history and an indescribable sense of mystery. My journey began in the Cité de Carcassonne. This ancient city is Carcassonne's most famous attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has completely preserved the medieval city walls, towers, churches and houses, making people feel as if they have traveled through time and space and returned to that ancient era. I strolled along the city walls of the ancient city, feeling the breath of history and its unique charm. The arrow slits, watchtowers and city gates that can be seen everywhere on the city walls make people feel the cruelty and heroism of medieval wars. Looking down from the city wall, the entire city of Carcassonne is in full view, with spectacular views. In the old town, I visited the Castle of Carcassonne (Château Comtal). The castle is the most important building in the ancient city and was once the residence of the rulers of Carcassonne. The interior of the castle is beautifully decorated in medieval style. I strolled through the corridors of the castle, imagining the prosperity of the past and the lives of the people who once lived here. The castle's watchtower is even more unforgettable, offering a 360-degree view of the entire ancient city and the surrounding scenery. Here, I can enjoy the beautiful scenery while feeling the sedimentation of history. It feels wonderful. Leaving the castle, I headed to the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire (Basilique Saint-Nazaire). This church is one of the landmark buildings of Carcassonne. It is magnificent and full of Gothic style. The interior of the church is beautifully decorated, full of religious solemnity and sacredness. In the old town, I also visited many other attractions, such as the Musée de Carcassonne, and some ancient houses. These attractions gave me a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Carcassonne. However, Carcassonne is not only about history and culture. It also has beautiful natural scenery. I walked along the Aude River, admiring the flow of the water and the scenery on both sides. The river water is crystal clear and the banks are lined with green trees, making it a great place to relax and unwind. Shopping is also a great pleasure in Carcassonne. From souvenir shops to local specialty shops, there is everything you need. I bought some Carcassonne-themed souvenirs, such as a T-shirt with the Carcassonne city wall pattern printed on it, as well as some local specialty wine and honey. These souvenirs not only left me with wonderful memories, but also made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of Carcassonne. During my few days in Carcassonne, I also visited the Carcassonne Farmers Market (Marché de Carcassonne). The market is full of all kinds of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and local specialties, all of which are mouth-watering. I bought some fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as some local wine and honey. These delicious foods not only satisfied my taste buds, but also made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of Carcassonne. While in Carcassonne, I also experienced some local activities, such as participating in a local wine tasting event and attending a local concert. These activities not only made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of Carcassonne, but also gave me a deeper understanding of the culture of Carcassonne. My trip to Carcassonne made me feel the unique charm of this city and its rich history, culture and natural resources. It is not only a historic city, but also a place full of vitality and vigor. It made me feel the weight of history and the charm of culture, and also gave me new insights into life. Here are some small episodes during the trip that made the trip more interesting and touching: Communication with local people: I communicated with some local people, who were friendly and hospitable and introduced me to the customs and culture of Carcassonne. Their stories make the history of Carcassonne more vivid. An unexpected discovery: In a small alley in the old city, I found a hidden restaurant with delicious food and reasonable prices. The owner of this restaurant, a passionate local, told me many stories about Carcassonne. Resting by the Oder River: On a bench by the Oder River, I quietly admired the river view, felt the flow of the river, and the breeze blowing. This tranquility allows me to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Carcassonne at night: As night falls, the lights of the ancient city light up, and the city walls become more majestic in the night. This quiet beauty is unforgettable. The trip to Carcassonne is not only an ordinary sightseeing, but also a baptism of the soul. It has given me a deeper understanding of history, culture, nature and life, and has also given me new insights into dreams and reality. It made me understand that the value of history lies not only in the records in books, but also in the mark it leaves in real life and the enlightenment it brings us. Goodbye, beautiful Carcassonne. I will always remember this unforgettable journey and the emotions and reflections it brought me. It made me understand that the meaning of travel is not only to appreciate the beautiful scenery, but also to feel life and understand life.

The basilique of Saint Nazaire is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. Its interiors are fascinating. From the contents, to carvings on the wall and the mosaic. Especially when light passes through it is a special sight to experience. Having seen a number of basilica's in this and previous trips. I can say that the Basilica of Saint Nazaire is amongst the most impressive ones with its romanesque and gorhis styles at play. The stained glass windows can captivate you. If you are religious and here on a Sunday. You might even get to be there for the mass. It makes for a memorable experience. Besides, on a hot day of sightseeing when you come in here, it's such a relief with the indoors being cooler than outside. Puts you at ease and then the sight of the stained glass completely takes you to a different place. #myhiddengems #carcassonne #summerdestinations #europe #basilica #100waysoftravel #france

Carcassonne, I had hardly heard of it before. When planning the trip and researching, I discovered that Carcassonne has a medieval castle, and I didn't have high expectations for it. Having visited quite a few castles in Europe, I imagined they would all be more or less the same. However, when the Carcassonne Castle came into view, it was somewhat shocking. Atop a rugged rocky mountain, built following the terrain, stood the uneven and towering battlements, thick walls, and sturdy towers. From a distance, Carcassonne Castle looks like something out of a fairy tale, a true medieval castle scene, which can be described as 'stunning' and is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is said to be the most popular tourist attraction in Languedoc. The castle has defensive fortifications, with the town enclosed in the center, surrounded by numerous battlements and 52 stone towers. The towers' unique 'witch hat' shapes are said to have been added by the architect Viollet-le-Duc during the 19th-century restoration. The main gate, the Narbonne Gate, leads to the castle's interior maze-like cobblestone alleys and courtyards, which today are filled with businesses and restaurants serving tourists. For many centuries, the hilltop where the old town is located was occupied by Gauls, Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Franks, and Cathars, among others, as a fortress to strengthen the defense. In 1659, when Roussillon was annexed by France, it no longer played an important role as a frontier fortress and gradually fell into decline. The castle features a concentric design, with double walls and defensive towers to withstand the attack of siege engines. At the main gate, the Narbonne Gate, one can still see the drawbridge that would be raised during times of turmoil. The castle's second gate, the Aude Gate, was partially damaged in 1816 and no longer has a drawbridge. Visiting the castle is free, but within the ancient castle is the Count's Castle, which requires a separate ticket for admission. Due to limited time, if one were to visit every attraction, the cost of tickets would be considerable. For trips like mine, driving by car, except for staying more than two days in big cities, it's basically one city per day. Even if there were mines, there wouldn't be enough time, and most cities are just for sightseeing and checking in. Inside the old castle, there is also a church, the Church of Saint-Nazaire, with its stained glass windows and delicate, elegant round patterns, offering a beautiful experience. Outside the old castle, the Old Bridge spans the River Aude, originally built in the 15th century and restored in the 19th century. At the end of the bridge, there is a unique small chapel, which feels a bit special and is worth exploring the story behind it. The Old Bridge leads to the city of Carcassonne, where buildings, small squares, and church relics can also make one linger. Tired, I'll just post pictures, which better illustrate the beauty of Carcassonne.

#falltrip Carcassonne, a picturesque medieval fortress town in the south of France, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history and charm. Nestled atop a hill overlooking the Aude River, Carcassonne is renowned for its well-preserved medieval citadel, complete with turreted walls and narrow cobblestone streets. The heart of Carcassonne is La Cité, the medieval citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you enter through the towering walls, you're transported back in time. The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, with its stunning stained glass windows, and the Château Comtal, a medieval castle within the fortress, are must-visit landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of La Cité, lined with charming shops selling local crafts, wines, and traditional French delicacies. The Place Marcou, a central square, is ideal for sipping coffee at a sidewalk café and soaking in the ambiance. Don't miss trying the local specialty, cassoulet, a hearty stew of beans, sausage, and meat, at one of the many restaurants within the citadel. Venture beyond La Cité to the Ville Basse, the lower town, where you'll discover a different but equally enchanting atmosphere. Here, the vibrant market square, Place Carnot, comes alive with colorful stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delights. It's an excellent place to experience the local lifestyle and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. A short walk from the lower town leads you to the Pont Vieux, an ancient bridge offering captivating views of La Cité against the backdrop of the river. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aude, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the surrounding landscape. For a deeper cultural experience, consider visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in the former Présidial building. The museum showcases an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, providing insight into the region's artistic heritage. Carcassonne is not just a destination for history enthusiasts; it's also a hub for wine enthusiasts. The Languedoc region is renowned for its vineyards, and Carcassonne offers ample opportunities for wine tasting. Explore local wineries and indulge in the rich flavors of the region's wines, from robust reds to crisp whites. In conclusion, Carcassonne is a captivating blend of medieval history, charming streets, and delectable cuisine. Whether you're exploring the ancient citadel, savoring local dishes, or immersing yourself in the region's wine culture, Carcassonne promises a memorable and enchanting journey into the heart of southern France.