La Cité de Carcassonne is a fortified medieval city located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most well-preserved examples of medieval architecture in Europe.
The city has a history dating back to the Roman Empire, but its most significant development took place in the 12th century when it became a key stronghold during the Albigensian Crusade. The citadel is surrounded by two concentric walls, the outer wall being over 3 km long with 52 towers and the inner wall being 1.5 km long with 24 towers. The castle keep, known as the Château Comtal, is located within the inner wall and was used as the residence for the local lords.
The city has narrow, winding streets that lead to the central square, the Place Marcou. Other notable features of the city include the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, a Romanesque church built in the 11th and 12th centuries, and the Museum of the Middle Ages, which houses a collection of medieval artifacts and art.
Carcassonne is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. Visitors can take guided tours of the city, explore the castle and the walls, and enjoy the traditional French cuisine in one of the many restaurants within the city. The city is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Medieval Festival, which is held every summer and features jousting, medieval markets, and other festivities.