Definitely make time to walk around the lower town. In addition to having the BEST views of the upper walled city (http://www.pbase.com/annforcier/image/123199438), the town itself is a nice French town and the Canal du midi goes through it. We were there in March and it was almost empty. It had snowed the day before.

Michael: From Wikipedia: "During the early 1830s, a popular sentiment for the restoration of medieval buildings developed in France. Viollet-le-Duc, returning during 1835 from study in Italy, was commissioned by Prosper Merimée to restore the Romanesque abbey of Vézelay. This work was the first of a long series of restorations; Viollet-le-Duc's restorations at Notre Dame de Paris brought him national attention. His other main works include Mont St-Michel, Carcassonne, Roquetaillade castle and Pierrefonds."

I missed it in the paragraph and did not see it in the list. From the <i>maquettes</i>, it looks like he added the spire.

Wow! What a response.
As suggested I`ll simply walk around and absorb it. Thank you all so much.As an Australian the sheer age astounds me.
Susielou

Tagging.

Hi Sus,

An overnight in Carcassone is quite nice. We thought that it was better than during the day.

Enjoy your visit.

((I))
Yes, it is not authentic. It also doesn't smell from horse droppings.

Interesting insights from FMT. Thank you!

You're welcome. :)