The medieval city of Carcassonne (11 Aude, Languedoc) is both the setting and backdrop of a fantatic light and firework show to celebrate Bastille Day.
The fortified medieval city of Carcassonne (11 Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon) is an impressive sight at any time, but at 10.30pm on Bastille Day (14 July) it becomes an even more awesome sight. To celebrate France’s national day, there is a spectacular light and firework show which lights up the facade of the old city.
During more than 25 minutes you can admire flames of blue, white, yellow, green red, gold and a grandiose crowning piece. More than 1200 impacts in 6 seconds over 600 metres of frontage.
Of course, for the best view don’t go into the Cité itself – but find somewhere along the banks of the Aude river to the south and west of the fortress where you can see the whole spectacle.see map
Often the best view of the town is of a summer evening when the walls are illuminated, albeit a little less ostentatiously than on Bastille Day. One good viewpoint is from the autoroute rest area between exits 23 and 24 on the A61 heading east towards Narbonne – although you will have to pay a motorway toll.
LINKS:-
Carcassonne Tourist Office
RECOMMENDED READING
Michelin Green Guide – (in English)Languedoc Roussillon Tarn Gorges Green Guide
The Rough Guide to Languedoc and Roussillon (Rough Guide Travel Guides)
Terry Darlington’s Narrow Dog to Carcassonne
