Would medieval towns be walled or fortified like cities?

Most of the cities had a tax for passing through their gates or crossing the bridge that gave access to them. And you can't have gates without walls. So even when most of the city could have outgrown its walls, they still existed. read more

Most of the cities had a tax for passing through their gates or crossing the bridge that gave access to them. And you can’t have gates without walls. So even when most of the city could have outgrown its walls, they still existed. read more

Only small fragments remain of the medieval city wall, most notably a strong round tower, now incorporated into the town hall as the city's belfry. The mighty citadel that grew out of the medieval count's castle, remains mostly intact and can be visited. read more

Visitors can tour the Chateau Comtal within the walled city, examine the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire and Saint-Celse, or -- when it's time for a breather -- we recommend a meal with local-area wine at La Bonne Demeure (11 Rue Saint-Sernin, 11000 Carcassonne; +33 4 68 47 45 84) on the medieval square. read more