The Languedoc Roussillon region. Languedoc - Roussillon

The Languedoc is more an idea than a real geographic object. The modern region occupies only a part of those lands where once prevailed oxytanesky, or Provencal language. Name occitan comes from French langued" oc- language "Os", where os - southern Gallo-Latin equivalent of French oui("Yes"). Occitania stretched from Bordeaux and Lyon south to Spain and northeast to Italy.
The heart of the region today is the Lower Languedoc, a coastal plain and dry, rocky vineyard hills between Carcassonne and Nîmes. It is here that the political support of the Occitan movement is located, demanding the recognition of their linguistic and cultural identity. Much of the movement's appeal stems from a sense of outrage at the political dominance of a distant and alien Paris, exacerbated by traditional Languedoc poverty. Recently, it has been characterized by the determination of Paris to pull the province into the modern world, using the large-scale development of tourism and the radical transformation of cheap winemaking. But in the vague collective memory of the people, these intentions are mixed with the cruel persecution of the Huguenots (Protestants) around 1700, the massacre of the Cathars in the 13th century. and the subsequent destruction of the vibrant Occitan-based troubadour tradition { langued" oc). It was the hostility towards Paris that drove the predominantly rural and conservative population to traditionally vote for the left, at least until the 2002 elections, which showed broad support for Le Pen's rising National Front. Although the sense of Occitan identity remains strong in the region, Occitan is not widely used as a spoken or literary language, despite the popularity of university language courses and the opening of primary schools in Occitan.
Toulouse(Toulouse), the cultural capital of the Languedoc, although covered in this chapter, lies outside the region, but deservedly belongs to the
the most interesting places... Among them are significant areas of magnificent mountain landscapes and river gorges from the foothills Cévennes(Cevennes) in the east to the mountains Montagne Noir(Montagne Noire) and Corbière(Corbieres) in the west. They are also remarkable examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Albi and Saint-Guillem-le Deser(St-Guilhem-le-Desert), medieval city centers Cord(Cordes) and Carcassonne(Carcassonne) and unforgettable romantic cathar castles on South. Him(Nimes) is famous for the ruins of the Roman times, which occupy a significant area. There are also long stretches of beaches where, far from the main resorts, you can still pick up a kilometer or a couple on them.

THE HISTORY OF LANGEDOC-ROUSSILLON

Languedoc lands are bounded by two large French rivers - the Garonne in the west and the Rhone in the east. Many political formations and administrative units were located on the territory of Languedoc throughout its foreseeable history. In chronological order, it looks like this:

118 BC - Gaul Narbonne.
V century AD - VIII century - Septimania, Gothia.
VI century (for the Mediterranean part of the VIII century) - domination of the Franks.
Since the X century - the possession of the Counts of Toulouse.
Since 1271 - the territory of the French Kingdom.
Since 1791 - the departments of Herault, Gard, Aude, Loser, Tarn.
Our time is the Languedoc-Roussillon and South-Pyrenees regions.

In the VI century BC (Iron Age), Iberian tribes settled on the territory of Languedoc, who erected Enserun - the first fortified settlement on a small hill (8 km west of Beziers).

In the 3rd century BC, the territories located near the Iberians were occupied by the Celtic tribe (according to other sources, a confederation of tribes) Volki. Enserun was destroyed. However, later, under the Romans, it revived for a short time, but still, by the end of the 1st century AD, it finally faded away.

Volks were subdivided into Tectosagic (that is, looking for a roof) and Arecomian. The Tectosagi Volcas settled in the west and founded Toulouse. Arecomian wolves began to live to the east, Nemausus (later - Nim) became their capital.

In the southern part of the region, the tribes inhabiting Languedoc were in contact with the Greeks. On the coast, in 600 BC they founded the colony of Massalia (Marseille), and in 550 - Agde, located closer to Languedoc (from the Greek "Agate Tyche" - "beautiful destiny").

Roman period - II century BC - V century AD

The Romans came to the Languedoc territory in 125-121 BC. The legions of Domitian, led by Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus and Fabius Maximus Allobrogius, annexed the lands to the Roman Empire and named them Narbonne Gaul (after the city of Narbonne, which became the main fortified point, since it was on the road leading from Rome to Tarragona).

The territory of Narbonne Gaul stretched from the Mediterranean coast to the Cévennes mountains, it also included the Rhone basin. In the southwestern part, where the chain of the Cévennes mountains was interrupted, the Romans moved further from the coast and occupied the territory of western Languedoc with the city of Toulouse. The upper Languedoc lying behind the Cévennes did not enter the zone of Roman influence. Nabronnian Gaul was called differently simply "provincia", it was from this word that the name Provence came from - it was applied to the territory that bordered Languedoc in the east.

In 58-49 BC, the post of proconsul of Narbonne Gaul was occupied by Julius Caesar. He waged the war against the Gauls from here, his "Notes on the Gallic War" contain a lot of information about the Celtic tribes that lived in the Languedoc before the arrival of the Romans. Another important source on the Languedocan history of the pre-Roman and Roman periods is the writings of the Roman writer and polymath Pliny the Elder.
Narbonne has become very important transport hub- here the roads Narbonne-Toulouse-Bordeaux and Rome-Spain intersected.

Transalpine Gaul

During the reign of the Roman emperor Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the region was mainly called "Transalpine Gaul" (ie Gaul, which lies behind the Alps when viewed from Rome).

Christianity appeared in Languedoc in the middle of the 3rd century. On behalf of Pope Fabian, Saint Saturninus Christianized Gaul, in an abbreviated Latin version, Saint Sernin. Saturninus passed through Him, finding a disciple of Onest there, and then went to Spain. After that, he returned to Toulouse, where he was martyred in 250 (the pagan priests sacrificed him). Saturnin was succeeded by Bishop Iler, who had sent him as a disciple while still in Spain. In the IV century, on the grave of his martyr teacher, he built a wooden church, which was called the Bull Church. The temple began to be called so in honor of the fact that Saturninus accepted a terrible martyr's death - he was tied to the tail of a mad bull. Christians immediately began to make pilgrimages to these places. Nowadays, on the site of the Ox Church in Toulouse, stands the Cathedral of Our Lady with the Bull (fr. Notre-Dame-du-Taure), which was built in the XIV century.

"Visigothic period" V - VIII century

Roman influence in these parts (however, as elsewhere) weakened in the III-IV centuries. The tribes of barbarians came from Central Europe, and the "Visigothic" period began in the history of Languedoc.

In 412, after unsuccessful attempts to gain a foothold in Italy, the Visigoths moved to southern Gaul, and then to the Pyrenees, where they fought with other tribes of barbarians. In 418, the Roman emperor Honorius presented the Aquitaine lands and the western part of Occitania to the Visigoths. The creation of the Visigothic kingdom began with its capital in Toulouse. The Languedoc thus became part of the Visigoth kingdom during this period.

In the battle of Vouillet (507), the Frankish king Clovis defeated the Visigoths, forcing them to leave Aquitaine and Toulouse as well (Clovis captured the city in 508). Only the Mediterranean part of Languedoc remained under the control of the Visigoths.

The development of the two parts of the Languedoc (Visigothic and Frankish) in VI-VIII took place in parallel and independently of each other. This division, with some degree of convention, can still be seen on the map of France - the Visigothic part coincides in many respects with the territory of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, and the Frankish part belongs mainly to the South-Pyrenees region.

The Mediterranean part of Languedoc, which remained under the rule of the Visigoths, is often called Septimania. This term originated from lat. septima - seventh, originated during the reign of the Visigoths. According to one version, this word comes from seven dioceses (parishes), into which the territory controlled by the Visigoths was divided. According to another version, Septimania owes its name to seven fortified cities that existed at that time in this part of Languedoc (Agde, Narbonne, Beziers, Nimes, Magelon, Uzes, Lodev). The territory of Septimania basically coincides with the territory of the present Languedoc-Roussillon region (with the exception of the departments of Garda and Lazer, located in the east and northeast).

The first mention of Septimania occurs in 472. In the years 508-714, this name referred to the territory that was subject to the Visigoths until the capture of their kingdom by the Arabs (714). At the same time, these lands continued to be called the Province of Narbonne (the so-called Roman heritage). The Visigoths themselves called part of the Narbonne province, which lay north of the Pyrenees, "the Gallic province", while the Franks called it "Gothia" - the country of the Goths.

During this period, the Narbonne province became a refuge for the adepts of the Arian doctrine, as well as for the Jews who fled here from the Kingdom of Toledo, where their situation deteriorated. The "Arians", who were condemned as heretics at the Council of Nicaea as early as 325, along with the Jews at the beginning of the 7th century, became victims of the orthodox Christian zeal of the Visigothic king Sizeburgh.

The part of Languedoc, which was not part of Septimania and was not subject to the Visigoths, was occupied by the Franks.

In 511, after the death of King Clovis, his empire was divided. The lands belonging to the Languedoc again found themselves under various subordination: the diocese of Albig entered Auvergne, Toulouse - into Aquitaine, the northeast of Languedoc (Vauvray, Vienne) went to the Kingdom of Burgundy.

711 was marked by the invasion of the Iberian Peninsula by the Arabs, who very quickly defeated the Visigoth kingdom. For Languedoc, the Arab threat became relevant in 719, after the capture of Narbonne. In the same year, the Arabs began raiding in Quercy, Rouergue and Provence. One of the first to stop the Arab expansion was Ed, Duke of Aquitaine, who defeated the enemy at the battle of Toulouse (721). And after Karl Martell won a convincing victory at the Battle of Poitiers (732), the threat of an Arab invasion of Gaul was finally repelled.

But even before 759, Narbonne and the southern part of Languedoc remained in the hands of the Arabs, until the moment when the king of the Franks, Pepin the Short, after seven years (!) Of siege, managed to return Narbonne to the rule of Christians. It is noteworthy that many residents of South Languedoc helped the Arabs - Christian Arians and Jews feared the power of Catholic Franks more than Muslim Arabs (thanks to the policy of religious tolerance pursued by the Arab rulers at that time). After the surrender of Narbonne, the Arabs went back to the Pyrenees, and Languedoc went completely to the Franks.

"Frankish period". VIII-XIII centuries

The formation of the Languedoc as a political and administrative unit reached a new level in 778. Charlemagne transferred the Kingdom of Aquitaine (from the Atlantic to the Rhone), with its main city Toulouse, first to the possession of Corson, and then to his cousin Guillaume, the grandson of Charles Martell. These two became the first counts of Toulouse. Charlemagne had high hopes for a separate kingdom, primarily in terms of fighting Arab invasions. On the whole, his calculation was justified. But Languedoc did not last long under a single rule - until 843, when Charles's descendants carried out the partition of his empire. According to the agreement, called the Vedeno Treaty, the right-bank part of the Rhone entered the "Middle Kingdom" and became subject to Lothar, and the rest of Languedoc went to Charles the Bald and became part of his West Frankish kingdom. But even in this part of Languedoc, it was far from administrative unity. Karl the Bald in Aquitaine found a strong rival - Pepin, who after only 2 years, in 845, managed to force the king of the Franks to give him Aquitaine with the dioceses of Toulouse, Gabala, Velavi, Albiga. True, in 849 Charles the Bald conquered Toulouse back.

In the 9th-13th centuries, Laggedoc was a conglomerate of more than twenty counties. Each of them, in some periods of time, either existed separately, or due to dynastic marriages, inheritance rights, or simply as a result of annexation, was united under a single management with several others.

The earls of Toulouse were the most prominent and influential aristocrats of that era. One of them, Raymond IV Saint-Gilles, was able to subjugate a significant territory. At the same time, he began by no means from Toulouse, the main city, but from the tiny patrimonial domain of Saint-Gilles, which made up half of the bishopric of Nimes. After the death of his cousin Berthe in 1065, Raimund (bypassing her husband) inherited the titles of Marquis of Gothia, Count of Rouegue and Duke of Narbonne. Although it should be noted that the head of most of Languedoc, Raimund was rather nominally, since he actually received only the lands of Ruega in his possession.

Over the next thirty years, Raimund, having outlived his closest relatives, united under his rule the entire territory of Languedoc. After the death of his older brother Guillaume, Raimund in 1094 finally got possession of Toulouse and the adjacent territories - Albi, Agenet and Quercy. Thus, the great county of Toulouse was formed in the Languedoc. Although the aspirations of Raymund IV did not end there - the ambitious count became a very active participant in the First Crusade, claimed, among others, the title of King of Jerusalem (the Duke of Bouillon was preferred), then continued to fight the Muslims for several years, resulting in the title of Count of Tripoli. Died Raimund IV during the siege of Tripoli in 1105.

CUISINE AND TRADITIONS OF LANGEDOCA-ROUSILLON

The Languedoc-Roussillon region consists of seaside and mountainous regions, so it is famous for a very varied cuisine. In port cities, for example, in Sete, seafood and fish dishes are very fond of, and a large number of recipes have appeared here thanks to Italian immigrants. In the mountainous regions of Lozere and Cévennes, they are mainly engaged in animal husbandry, so they eat hot, hearty dishes from chestnuts and meat there. In addition, Languedoc is considered the birthplace of Roquefort, the king of cheeses, well-known mineral waters and vermouths.

PRODUCTS

Cévennes bow

The area around Cévennes is famous for the sweet Sevennes onions grown there. It has large heads, oblong, even a little diamond-shaped, it has a delicate and sweet taste. Cévennes onions play an important role in the preparation of various local dishes. It is necessarily included as an ingredient in various salads, in many meat dishes, as well as in almost all dishes that are prepared from chestnuts.

Boker bread

This type of bread gets its name from the town of Bocker, in the vicinity of which the highest wheat crop in all Languedoc has been grown for many years. Here, for the first time, they started baking this round bread, known for its crispy brown crust and airy pulp. Boker bread has a specific dough recipe, and yeast is also used, so its shelf life is quite long, moreover, it does not stale for a long time.

Twisted Lodevo baguette

The town of Lodev has long been famous for baguettes baked in rye ash. The baguette is shaped like a basket. According to the historian Muet Barboff, Lodev's story throughout its entire length is associated with references to this bread. According to the historian, the baking of this bread in Lodevo began in the 16th century, during the Huguenot battles.

Sausages

Languedoc is famous for a variety of meat products, including delicious sausages. Among them, it is necessary to highlight the Vallabreg sausage, the name of which was given by the city of Vallabreg, located on the Rhone River, and the raw smoked ham, also called the Black Mountain ham. Vallabreg sausage is made from a mixture of beef and pork, therefore it has a delicate taste.

The raw smoked pork leg has a rich pink color and a mild salty taste.

DISHES

SOUPS

Badjana

This dish is considered a typical Sevennian, once upon a time it was included in the winter diet as a main dish for peasants living in the southern Pyrenees and Languedoc. This soup is very rich, chestnuts and dried vegetables are used for its preparation, and with its help the peasants were fed and warmed up in the most difficult times that people in agriculture have.

The name of the Bhajan soup, translated from the local dialect, means "peeled chestnuts". There is another version of the name - as if it came from the name of the city where this dish was most widespread. According to the third version, this word denotes the traditional way of cooking chestnuts with various vegetables.

In order to prepare the Bazhana soup, the chestnuts are peeled and dried, and then boiled for several hours in slightly salted water. The chestnuts are then transferred to vegetable broth and cooked there. If the chestnuts are boiled for at least 12 hours without a break, changing the water several times, you can achieve a delicate taste and soften the tart aroma inherent in chestnuts. Before serving, the hot soup is diluted to taste with milk and wine.

Set fish soup

The poet Paul Valéry was born in the city of Sete. This city became a major port in the 18th century. Thanks to the culinary traditions of this city, the French have developed such dishes as fish soup, which has received the red label “label rouge” for its quality and excellent taste. This brand is the highest quality mark in France. This thick, rich soup tastes like bouillabaisse and uses many types of fish and various seafood. Previously, this soup was a traditional fish soup, which was prepared from any small fish caught in the net. Nowadays, they use gourmet types of fish to make a set soup. Soup is served with croutons, sprinkled with grated emmental or gruyere cheese. The fish soup is very good with white wine.

MEAT DISHES

Senjil-style beef stew (Agriad)

This method can be used to cook extraordinarily tender meat. It was invented by the inhabitants of the Rhone Valley. In order to obtain the required degree of beef softness, first the meat is kept in a container with dry white wine for at least twelve hours. Only the next day, this meat, as well as onions, gherkins and anchovies are dipped in a saucepan and stewed over low heat. Then add parsley and garlic to the bowl. Meat is usually garnished with potatoes or Camargue red rice.

Brajol

Residents of southern France call a type of small fried meat rolls brajol. They are made from beef tenderloin, which is then rubbed with herbs, garlic, pepper and salt. These rolls are prepared with a cream cheese and tomato filling.

Guardian

This dish is considered traditional in the Camargue region, located in the Rhone delta. This is a veal stew called the guardian. In order to prepare this stew, the meat is marinated in red wine, thyme and sage are added, and stewed for several hours over low heat, adding olive oil.

Ways

The origin of this dish is associated with one very eloquent legend in which the hero of the famous book of Francois Rabelais appears. Legend has it that once a famous food lover Gargantua got very hungry, and came across a giant vat, passing near the foot of Mount Sabot. The fairies were cooking some kind of thick stew in a vat. Pieces of pork and beef, pork lard, potatoes and wine floated in it. In fact, path is a very fatty dish in which meat is stewed, and even Pantagruel and Gargantua would be quite satisfied with its taste. Ways are prepared from a pork leg, cut into small pieces, and beef tenderloins. All meat is marinated in wine and then stewed with potatoes, Provencal herbs and shallots. Liqueur or grape vodka is also added to the paths to taste.

Canorgian lamb entrails

For the inhabitants of the northern part of Languedoc, this meat dish is traditional. It is made from mutton entrails marinated in white wine and stewed. They take the insides of the lamb, rub them with pepper and salt, and then stew for seven hours over low heat. The meat becomes unusually soft. In order for the dish to have a delicate aroma, the meat is stewed with stewed carrots, Provencal herbs and cloves. The dish of lamb entrails in the Canurgian style is served as a hot appetizer and as an independent dish.

Macaronda

By the name of the dish, one can understand that it owes its origin to Italy. Most often, this is the name for pasta with meat, in which tomato sauce is added, although the recipe of the dish may differ from chef. In every family, this dish is prepared with some differences. It can be another kind of meat, and a kind of pasta, and tomato sauce, which all housewives prepare in their own way. Each dish has a unique taste. In order to cook pasta, traditional pasta, or foam, is most often used, and pieces of meat cooked in stew or fried are added to the dish. But often, instead of meat, the dish consists of sausages, meatballs or brajoli rolls.

Languedoc has few famous dishes like the thick bean stew called cassoulet. The name of the dish is based on the Occitan word "casolet", which means an earthen pot with a tapered neck, traditionally used to prepare this dish. The ingredients required are white beans and several different types of meat or meat products. Canned food "cassoulet", which is prepared in mass production, is also sold. To prepare them, they simply take beans, bacon and tomato sauce. In order to cook real cassoulet in a restaurant, you need a turkey or braised duck leg, and beans are cooked over low heat, adding steamed vegetables and herbs.

For the first time, mentions of Cassoula appeared during the period when the Hundred Years War was going on. The city of Castelnaudary was besieged by British troops, and the inhabitants of the besieged city were satiated by preparing a bean stew. With this dish, they sustained their strength. Today Castelnaudary has declared itself the capital of the cassoulet dish, but Carcassonne and Toulouse consider the dish theirs.

Serve cassoulet best with the red wines Corbières and Fitou.

FISH DISHES

Set-style fish pie

This is a traditional fish pie, the recipe for which originated in the city of Sete thanks to the Italian immigrants of the 18th century. The pie is usually small and weighs no more than 150 grams, and is prepared closed. Squid, octopus and tomato sauce are used as the filling. Set-style fish pie is prepared and sold throughout the south of France. They can be enjoyed in a restaurant, bought in a bakery or supermarket. In other parts of France, the pie is not as popular.

Set-style fish pie is served both cold and hot. It depends on the time of year. Usually white semi-dry wine is served with the pie.

Sardinade

The Italian name "sardinare" comes from the method of grilling sardines, which is common among the fishermen of Languedoc and Provence. To prepare this dish, take the freshest fish caught on the same day or the night before. Olive oil is sprinkled on the sardines, Provencal herbs are added, not even the heads are cut or cut off. In this form, the sardines should be grilled until a crust appears. White semi-dry wine is served with hot sardinars.

CHEESE, DESSERTS

Cheeses

Famous cheeses are made in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The whole world knows about such a variety as Roquefort - sheep's blue cheese, which contains the noble mold penicillium roqueforti.

An old legend tells how the formula for making Roquefort cheese was invented. In the Middle Ages, a careless shepherd invented this cheese. This young man loved pretty girls and often left his flock unattended. Once he ran away on another date and forgot about his breakfast - a piece of bread and sheep's cheese. The shepherd returned a few days later and saw that the cheese was moldy. Despite this, the taste of the cheese only got better. In fact, Roquefort has been prepared for a long time. This cheese was very much loved by King Charles the Sixth. And, according to the philosopher Denis Diderot, Roquefort is the king of cheeses.

Roquefort is prepared, like other blue cheeses, from curd mass, into which seeds of noble mold are sown before ripening and turning directly into a finished product. For this, special needles are used. These needles leave voids in the mass in which a specific blue mold develops, due to which Roquefort has a sharp and delicate taste. Roquefort is best consumed between April and October, within five months of the cheese ripening.

There is also a softer version of Roquefort. This is a moldy kosk cheese (Bleu des Causses). It is made not from sheep's milk, like Roquefort, but from cow's milk, it has less mold in the pulp.
Pelardon goat cheese is considered another equally popular soft cheese. It is produced mainly in the departments of Hérault and Gard. This cheese has a very delicate texture, a soft crust that has a creamy color. This cheese has a tart aroma and a light nutty flavor characteristic of goat cheeses. Palerdon can be a snack and an ingredient in salads. It is marinated in Provencal herbs and olive oil. The people of the Cévennes, for example, serve it for dessert, and it is served with chestnut jam and honey. The Cévennes are famous not only for pelardone, but also for the soft goat cheese rorpe, which has a similar type.

The specialty cheeses produced in the Lozere department include the semi-hard laguiole and levejac. Layol is a type of cow cheese that ripens for a long time, sometimes even two years. It is best to feast on this product from autumn to early spring. To prepare Levezhak cheese, they take unpasteurized goat milk, it has a porous softness and a yellowish crust, which is slightly covered with mold. In terms of its taste, it is similar to fedu cheese, which is also produced in Lozere, using whole goat's milk for this.

Frescati

Saint Louis is considered the patron saint of the city of Set, and his holiday is annually celebrated on 25 August. At traditional family feasts on this festive day, frescoes are sure to be served. This is a gorgeous cake made with rum sponge cake and meringue. There are three layers in the frescati cake: shortcrust pastry cakes with a biscuit layer. The sponge cake for this cake is baked by adding raisins and generously soaking it with rum. Delicate Italian meringue covered with coffee glaze is used to decorate the cake. Frescati cake is served for dessert with Muscat wine.

Grisette

A very famous delicacy in Languedoc is the licorice grisette. They have been prepared for many hundreds of years, and the legend says that once local traders used these small caramels made from licorice and Narbon honey as bargaining chips when they made deals with pilgrims who passed through these lands. Pilgrims went to venerate the relics of St. James, and licorice sweets with their tart aroma brightened up their difficult journey. In the 19th century, grisette became the signature dessert of Montpellier. They are sold in tin boxes that show the water tower of Peyroux Park. Many tourists keep these boxes as a memory of these places.

Zezetas

Zezeta biscuits are another traditional dessert invented in Sete. These are crispy cookies, somewhat similar to our brushwood. To prepare it, take shortbread dough, add dry white wine and orange tincture.

BEVERAGES

Cartagen

This aperitif, typical of the Languedoc inhabitants, owes its name to the Latin word quarta, meaning quarter. The fact is that in its manufacture they take one quarter of wine alcohol and 75% of grape must. Cartagena has a fortress of about 16 - 22 degrees. Served as an aperitif, it goes well with Roquefort cheese and foie gras.

Gariophilate

A variety of white sweet wine with the Latin name "gariophilate", which is considered the oldest flavored wine in the region. In the Middle Ages, this excellent wine, to which the clove infusion was added for aroma, was loved by the royal court, and it came to the king's table only on special occasions. Modern French winemakers use old recipes to make garyophylate, which is why this wine is still called medieval. Very often this wine is included as an ingredient in aperitifs, it is served along with desserts and gourmet dishes.

Vermouth Noilly Prat

Everyone knows that classic vermouths are prepared in Italy and France.

Noilly Prat is the most famous French vermouth brand, produced in southern France since 1813. Vermouth got its name from the name of the botanist Joseph Noyly, who invented the formula by which this fortified wine is still prepared.

Noilly Prat Dry is the most common option, using coriander and chamomile infusions to flavor it. There are also Noilly Prat Rouge vermouths, which are mixed with cloves and nutmeg, and Noilly Prat Ambre, a sweet wine with a vanilla-cinnamon aroma. This wine is sold only in shops in Marseille.

Mineral water

The most famous brand of French mineral water is Perrier sparkling water. It is bottled from a source located in the Gard department, located not far from Nimes, 15 km away. The Perrier brand was first recognized in 1903, when the source was owned by the Nims therapist Louis Perrier. Perrier became interested in the healing qualities of this mineral water. Over the past hundred years, this water has become the most commercially successful brand of mineral water in France, as well as an important export. The nearby Lozere department is known for another source of soda mineral water Quezac. The Quezac brand was recognized no more than twenty years ago, but the water in this source has been extracted since Gallo-Roman times.

Languedoc region map

The historical region of Languedoc (Languedoc, Lengadoс) occupies the southern part of ancient Occitania (the common name for the regions of modern Provence, Droma, Auvergne, Limousin, Gascony and Languedoc, in which the Occitan language is spoken). For the French, Languedoc is more than just geographic region- this is one of the historical "nuclei" of the formation of modern France, which still retains many characteristic national features, and therefore has a certain degree of conservatism and a clear sense of national identity. Although the Occitan language is practically out of use today and has no literary support, the locals do their utmost to emphasize their "independence from Paris," and Languedoc itself is traditionally a stronghold of the radical left (and, more surprisingly, the extreme right too) parties.

Around Montpellier

A characteristic feature of the Languedoc is the rather large distance of its most interesting objects from the coast. The reason for this is simple - the local shores bears little resemblance to the many kilometers of beaches starting northeast of the Cote d'Azur. The wind-blown, harsh and almost treeless strip of coastline from Camargue to Narbonne is almost entirely framed by swampy lagoons (etangs) and is not very suitable for the construction of resorts. However, the quiet fishing towns, the complete absence of crowds of tourists, many perfectly preserved traditions and unique natural sites attract many connoisseurs of "ordinary France" here.

The main decoration of the coast is undoubtedly the regional nature Park Camargue(Camargue), occupying the entire western part of the vast Rhone delta. These ancient lands of salt marshes, reed marshes, sea lagoons, hundreds of channels and sand islands considered to be the last site in Europe where you can see relict semi-steppe natural complexes that have completely disappeared in other areas. Here, on an area of ​​almost one and a half thousand square kilometers, pink flamingos, egrets and many water birds still nest, and up to 300 species of birds have been recorded here. In the unique juniper forest (the local juniper reaches a height of up to 7 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 50 cm!) And in the endless reed thickets of numerous channels and brackish estuaries, more than a hundred species of mammals are found. But " business card“Camargue, along with pink flamingos and small (about 1.35 meters at the withers) black bulls, are wild white horses that are also not found anywhere else in Europe.

Around the protected lands, you can find many small resorts and boarding houses (part of the territory of the marshes is still privately owned and is used for grazing and partly for hunting). Most old resort here - La Grande Mot, which is filled with tourists in the summer (there is a good beach here), and in winter it is practically dying out. A little to the east is located Port Camargue with its modern marina and small fishing town Le Gros-du-Roi(Le Grau-du-Roi) with its famous drawbridge.

An unusual town is located 3 km from the coast Aigues-Mortes, or Egmort (Aigues-Mortes - "dead waters"), built as a fortress and base port for the Seventh Crusade (XIII century). Its massive walls and towers are virtually untouched by time, and the numerous salt fields around give this place a rather unusual look. 12 km to the south lies a rather boring resort town OK Palavas(Palavas-les-Flo, Palavas). And the best place to relax by the sea is the area between Palavas and the border of the marshes, where you can see thousands of birds just lying on the beach. Nearby, over the wall of reeds, rises the beautiful Cathedral of the Catedral de Magelon (XII century, open daily from 9.00 to 18.00) - all that remains of a prosperous city, which was almost destroyed by Louis XIII because of the Protestant religion of its inhabitants. Every year in the second half of June, under the arches of the cathedral, the Festival of Church Music is held, which brings together the best bands from all over Europe.

28 km southeast of Montpellier, on a narrow strip of land separating the Tau lagoon from the sea, there is a large medieval port city Set(Sete). Lively and quite picturesque, the town is considered one of the centers of shellfish breeding, and therefore is famous for its seafood restaurants, picturesque panoramas opening from the pine-covered top of the Mont Saint-Clair hill, Fort Saint-Pierre (17th century, now there is an open theater) , The International Museum of Modern Art and the Paul Valéry Museum (French writer of the 20th century, a native of Seth).

And at the southwestern end of the long lagoon of Basen-de-Tau is one of the most interesting coastal towns of the Camargue - Agd(Agde). Founded by the Phoenicians and grown under the Romans, it flourished for centuries, and only the development of the port of Set turned it into a sleepy fishing harbor. Today it is the main tourist center of the region, famous for its Mediterranean charm, easily traced in the narrow winding alleys between rue de l "Amour and the embankment, in the characteristic fortified cathedral (XII-XVII centuries), as well as in the color of its houses built of black volcanic stone quarries of Mont Saint-Loup. And if you move from Montpellier to the interior of Languedoc, you can get acquainted with such famous historical sites as the picturesque town Saint Martin de Londre(St-Martin-de-Londres), the Cambous castle and the adjacent prehistoric village of the same name, the Demuzelle caves www.demoiselles.com, the spectacular Herault gorge and the Abbey of Saint-Guillem-le-Deser (St -Guilhem-le-Desert, IX-XII centuries) near the famous medieval Devil's Bridge (Pont du Diable), as well as ancient dolmens near the village of Le Pouget.

South Languedoc

Southern regions The Languedoca stretches from the mouth of the Aude to the coastal town. These regions of low rocky hills and rivers running down from the Pyrenees are rarely visited by foreign tourists. However, the fortified city founded by the Celts, lying right on the railway line from Toulouse to Montpellier, is known as one of the most picturesque cities in France and certainly the most amazing city in Languedoc.

36 km west of Carcassonne, on the road to Toulouse, lies the city Castelnaudary(Castelnaudary) is one of those innumerable French provincial cities that do not have any special attractions, but, nevertheless, are visited by thousands of tourists just because of their vibrant national charm. The Midi Canal flowing through its territory, which connects the Garonne Valley with Mediterranean Sea as well as many beautiful old mansions, a carefully restored 18th century windmill, a semaphore tower from the same period and ... the famous local cold cuts with beans, which is the most popular dish in the south of the country. And north of the channel, the spurs of the low Montagne Noire highlands begin, which forms the western end of the regional natural park Haut Languedoc with its superb landscapes, many beautiful gorges and picturesque mountain villages, many of which are almost older than the same Carcassonne.

Nearby, you can cruise on an Eco Barge. The vessel is named Soleil d "Oc and is the first solar-powered cruise barge. A unique ecological voyage takes place along the Languedoc, or South Canal (Canal du Midi), which is included in the List world heritage UNESCO. The cruise itinerary begins in Carcassonne and ends in Béziers, one of the most ancient cities in France. The Languedoc Canal was built in the second half of the 17th century. It stretches across southern France for 240 kilometers - from Toulouse to the Mediterranean port of Sete. The canal is part of the waterways connecting Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout the canal, ships pass 91 locks; and the total height difference is 190 meters.

Beziers and around

The main city of the Eastern Languedoc region adjacent to the Mediterranean coast is Bezier(Beziers), which, among other things, also has the status of the wine capital of Languedoc. It is interesting that local wines cannot boast of exquisite bouquet or richness of taste, but due to some peculiarities of local farming, they have a loyal clientele not only in France. Local historical monuments are also good - old bridge Pont Neuf, the steep hill of the Cathedral of Saint-Nazaire (13th-17th centuries) with its fortress-like towers, the adjacent ancient monastery and the garden of the episcopal palace, the Museum of Fine Arts in the old mansion Hotel Fabregat and its branch in the Hotel Fayet , historical Museum Biterua in the old barracks of Saint-Jacques, as well as the picturesque avenue Paul-Riquet, full of cafes, restaurants, banks and shops, and leading to the magnificent small park of the Plateau des Poet in the English style.

Just 18 km east of Béziers, lies the old market center Posenas- the place of formation of the first Parliament of Languedoc and the residence of its governors until 1465. At the end of the 17th century, Prince Armand de Bourbon decided to turn the town into a "second Versailles", and although he did not fully succeed, a large number of stately mansions of the 14th-17th centuries have survived to this day.

25 km southwest of Béziers lies the city Narbonne(Narbonne), which was once the capital of the first Roman colony in Gaul. The plague and the war with the British put an end to the former greatness of this city in the 14th century, but at the end of the 19th century it became known as a winemaking center. The main monuments of the city are Orreum (Horreum) at the northern end of rue Rouget-de-l "Isle - an unusual underground Roman warehouse in the form of a gallery, a small early Christian crypt of the Saint-Paul church, a huge Gothic cathedral Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur, The Archbishop's Palace with its 40-meter tower overlooking all the surroundings, the Marchand Bridge, art and archaeological museums, as well as the Church of Notre Dame de Lamourghi, which now houses a collection of Roman sculptures and epigraphs.

15 km south-west of the city is the beautiful Abbey of Fontfroide (XII-XVII centuries), and a little to the south - the large lagoon Bage and the African Reserve, which almost naturally contains more than 150 species of animals, and not only from Africa. You can visit a little old-fashioned seaside resort Valra(Valras-Plage) and more modern beach areas Saint Pierre and Narbonne-Plage, the islet of Montagne de la Clap with a picturesque village Gruissan and the Chapelle-Notre-Dame-de-Özil church, as well as the nearby lands of the Haut Languedoc Regional Natural Park.

Roussillon

The area, which includes the eastern edge of the Pyrenees, as well as the lowlands around Perpignan and along the Mediterranean coast, has been known since antiquity as Roussillon (in honor of the main city of the Sardon tribe - Ruscino, destroyed by the Normans in 859), or "French Catalonia". Catalans appeared here in the X century, and in the XIII-XIV centuries, the Franco-Catalan border passed along the Corbières hills north of Perpignan. Under Jaume II, Roussillon became part of the kingdom of Mallorca, a vassal of Aragon, which entailed a whole series of wars and uprisings (most of them were either provoked or suppressed by the French), which ended only in 1659 with the signing of the Iberian Peace, according to which the region finally ceded to France. By that time, the favorable strategic position had turned the city of Perpignan into a major trade center of the Pyrenees, therefore the plains of Roussillon underwent intensive "Frenchization", but the mountainous regions retained their age-old way of life, "mixed" in the merger and antiquities. Until now, the local language carries many Spanish and Occitan forms, which can be clearly seen in the usually bilingual road signs, and the national red and yellow flag is often found more often than the French one.

The main city of Roussillon and the administrative center of the Department of Eastern Pyrenees - the city of Perpignan (Perpignan, Perpinya) lies on the Tet River, 13 km from the Mediterranean coast and 31 km north of the Franco-Spanish border.

Around Perpignan, an interesting town Canet-Plage(Canete-Plage, 12 km east) with its wide sandy beach, Fort Forteres de Sals (15th century, 15 km north of Perpignan), a village of winemakers Totawel(Tautavel), in the area of ​​which the remains of the most ancient man in Europe were discovered in 1971 (dating from about 450 thousand years BC, are now the main exhibit of the local Prehistoric Museum), the old capital of Roussillon is a town Elne(Elne) with its fortress-cathedral Santa Elalie and a beautiful monastery (both XII-XVI centuries), a town Cere(Ceret) with picturesque old quarters, Romanesque Abbey of Saint-Marie (XIV century) near Arles-sur-Tesch(Arles-sur-Tech), a picturesque mountain town Prat de Mollo(Prats-de-Mollo) with its carefully restored ancient walls, steep cobbled streets and modest gray church, Fort Lagar (15th-17th centuries), lush botanical garden and beautiful church (1151) in the village Bul-d "Amon(Boule d "Amont), the majestic peak of Canigou in the mountainous regions of the southern part of the region, teeming with small mountain resorts, as well as the long coast of Vermeille with its small cozy towns and good beaches.

As in many other French regions, Roussillon has its own discount card for tourists - Pass Roussillon, which provides a lot of discounts. Approximately 38 participating attractions, including the abbeys of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou and Saint-Michel-de-Quija, the Palace of the Kings of Mallorca, the art museum in Céret and the monastery in Elne, can be visited free of charge.

Attractions Languedoc-Roussillon

1. Medieval Carcassonne

Carcassonne surprises travelers with realistic views from a fairytale scene, strange as it may sound.For a long time, the rows of defensive towers and crenellated ancient defensive walls create a stunning impression.This incredibly well-preserved medieval fortified city offers an exciting travel experience that is definitely worth taking advantage of.

Carcassonne is locatedon the top of a hill 148 meters high, in a strategically advantageous location during the Middle Ages.Carcassonne is elliptical in plan, surrounded by a double chain of thick defensive walls with 54 towers.The fortifications, partly dating back to the French Gothic period, were erected by King Louis IX in 1250 and Philip Bold in 1280.For those who visit Carcassonne in July, keep in mind that during this time the city is one of the best places in France with a fireworks festival.

2. Montpellier

Elegant buildings, grand squares and a mild Mediterranean climate make Montpellier a prime tourist center region Languedoc-Roussillon.This vibrant university town belonged to the kings of Aragon as far back as the 13th century, was the capital of the Huguenots in the 16th century and is still a cultural center today.There are many art galleries and museums in the city.Main city museum, Fabre Museumhas an exceptional collection of paintings by Italian, Dutch and French masters from the Renaissance to the present day.The city itself is like a museum under open air... On a guided tour of Montpellier, you will enjoynarrow medieval streets of the city and magnificent medieval houses.On the eastern edge of the Old Town of Montpellier is the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, a great area for a leisurely stroll.

3. Céret

Céret is a beautiful city of artists 32 kilometers southwest of Perpignan in a delightful countryside in the foothills of the Pyrenees.In the early 20th century, Catalan sculptor Manolo and composer Deodat de Severac inspired many famous artists to come to Céret, transforming the city into an artist colony.

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Céret has an excellent collectionworks of modern art, surprisingly rich for such a small town, it isincluding works by Matisse, Chagall, Maillol, Dali, Manolo, Picasso and Tapies.

4. Narbonne

Once an important Roman port, Narbonne is now a small seaside town.The main feature of Narbon is the central square, surrounded bystately buildings. In the palaceArchbishop of the XIII-XIV centuries houses the Museum of Art and Historywith a magnificent collection of paintings, enamel, furniture and ceramics of the 19th and 20th centuries and an archaeological museumwith prehistoric, classical and medieval antiquities.

On a city tour, be sure to check out the 12th-century Old Palace and the 14th-century New Palace.Especially impressive is the Cathedral of Saint-Justbuilt between 1272 and 1332 in a bold North French Gothic style.The cathedral has a magnificent choir and an exquisite 14th-century stained glass window.To the southwest of the city is the early Gothic church of the 12th century Seny-Paul-Serge.

5. Amélie les Bains

Located in an idyllic valley, the resort town of Amelie-les-Bains was named after the wife of King Louis Philippe.Mineral waters from natural springs have been noted for their health value since Roman times. A real historical landmark of the city is aboutstatues of ancient roman baths. The city also has a historic church that dates back to the 10th century. Also pay attention to the annual international folklore festival. Hetakes place in August and showcases folk dance and music from around the world.

6. Arles-sur-Tech

This little Old city built around Benedictine abbey, next to the peak of Puig de l'Estelle, providing a picturesque backdrop. The city grew up around the Abbey of Sainte-Marie founded in the 8th century. The abbey church is well preserved and contains ancient sarcophagi, one of which dates from the 4th century. 13th century monastery, built in the early Gothic style, is exquisite and quite beautiful. Next to the abbey is the city's parish church, with an impressive tower and ornate interior. It is worth taking a walking tour of the De la Fou Gorge, a magnificent natural site with stunning beautiful views.

The monastery of St. Martin attracts not only with its long history, but also with its picturesque location: this abbey, like a fortress, was built at an altitude of 2785 meters on top of a steep cliff that drops into an abyss. Visitors will be delighted with the stunning scenery of the cloister and its historic church.In a Romanesque abbey The 11th century Saint-Martin-du-Canigou is an exquisite monastery that provides a tranquil contemplation of the beauties of the Languedoc-Roussillon province.

8. Prades

Picturesque small town in the south of France, Prades, stands at the foot of Mount Le Canigou in the Tête Valley, which 44 kilometers from Perpignan. Prades is part of the Regional Natural Park of the Catalan Pyrenees Mountains and is culturally linked to the neighboring region of Catalonia in Spain. A landmark in Prada is the interesting Gothic church, Saint Pierre, with a Romanesque tower and beautiful 17th century paintings by the Catalan artist Leo Polge.

The renowned cellist Pablo Casals (1876-1973) lived in exile in Prada.As a tribute to Casals, the city hosts an annual chamber music festival.In July and August, the festival presents over 30 concerts of classical chamber music.

9. Cerbere

This small French town is located near the border with Spain,just six kilometers from the Catalan city of Portbu and the tradition of Catalonia is very strong there.Cerbère's main attraction is its small, protected beach.... In addition to the beach, observant tourists should stop their attention at the city square and the picturesque embankment with many opencafes and restaurants that are famous for their excellent Mediterranean cuisine. Hto enjoythe beauty of the landscape, head southwest from town toa promontory with an exceptional view of the coast of Spain. From Serbera, many tourists prefer to go on an excursion to Spain.

10. Aigues-Mortes

Known for its medieval fortifications, the historic town of Aigues-Mortes lies 47 kilometers west of Arles on the outskirts of the Camargue Nature Reserve. The huge city walls form a rectangle that surrounds the city. The ring of walls has 15 towers and ten gates, some with towers. The wide streets allowed the city's defenders to travel quickly from one place to another to repel invaders. The best way to discover Aigues-Mortes is to walk up the walls and then along the narrow streets of the old town to soak up the medieval atmosphere in one of the most beautiful cities in the Languedoc-Roussillon province.

The land that will be discussed in this article is delightful in many ways. But it is especially surprising that long time it did not attract tourists, despite the beautiful beaches and climate, many attractions and delicious wine. Today the situation has changed, and Languedoc-Roussillon (France) has turned into a tourism center with a developed infrastructure and many entertainment options.

Introductory information about areas of France

The Languedoc on the map of France is just one of the many regions of France. Of course, the Soviet viewer and everyone who has read "The Three Musketeers" by Alexander Dumas is familiar with the historical region of the country called Gascony, where the main character was from.

But she's not the only one. Central France has the Laura Valley and Burgundy. The southern ones include Aquitaine, Corsica, the Cote d'Azur, widely known to tourists, considered in the article Lanerok-Roussillon, Auvergne and Limousin and the Rhône-Alpes. Southern France is the Pyrenees. The northern ones include Brittany, Nord-pas-de-Calais, Normandy, where the allied troops landed in 1944, Picardy, the well-known homeland of the beloved drink of Champagne, Alsace and Lorraine.

Languedoc in France

About the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France

The French fertile lands attracted many peoples. Before the French, Celts, Gauls, Romans, Visigoths and many others lived here. Languedoc (France) became part of Spain during the French-Spanish wars, but then returned to France again. This region has known many wars, so many cities became real fortresses, a vivid example of this is Narbonne.

Languedoc-Roussillon

The caves of Roussillon (France) became a reliable shelter for Christians persecuted by pagans, later heretics and Protestants were hiding here from the fires of the Inquisition.

Additional Information! Few know, but the French Inquisition largely began with Augustin de Baruelle, who developed a scapegoat conspiracy theory.

This region has experienced many wars, including two world wars. But today it is a thriving land with many attractions and beautiful vineyards. Local winemakers have long been competing even with Champagne. You can see the Languedoc-Roussillon area on the map by clicking on link.

Sightseeing in France

sights

For some, France is a historical cultural monument, to which, for example, the city of Narbonne can be attributed. Someone comes here for the sake of nature landscapes - it can be Mount Lozere near the village of La Garde-Guerin or Fenestre Park in the city of La Bourboule. But this article will focus on lesser known, but no less interesting places:

• An architectural monument built by the Gauls is the Carcassonne fortress. Its construction was started by the indigenous inhabitants of the region, but after the conquest of the area by the Romans, the fortress underwent changes and was supplemented by 50 towers. Its modern appearance is the fruit of a free reconstruction and repair carried out at the end of the 20th century. The entrance to the fortress-museum is paid - 9 euros *.
• On the banks of the Aude River is the city of Bastide, a former fortified fortress with powerful walls. Today it is a modern city, the military glory of which is reminded only of the preserved bastions. The whole city is ranked among the historical monuments of France, so there will be something to see here, but the most visited ones include Cathedral Archangel Michael and the Church of Saints Vincent and Carmelites.
• The South Canal, built in the 17th century, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, embodied by the efforts of 15 thousand workers. Nearby there is a man-made cascade consisting of 8 fountains.
• Emperor Augustus is considered one of the greatest rulers of the Roman Empire. In the French city of Nîmes, you can see the Arch erected in his honor. It is perfectly preserved and allows you to fully appreciate the architectural idea of ​​ancient architects.
• You can see with your own eyes a garrot, a chastity belt, a guillotine, a rack and even an electric chair in the Museum of the Inquisition in the city of Carcassonne. The Museum of the Inquisition was erected on the site where Cathars, considered heretics, were once tortured.
• In the city of Nimes there is a temple "Maison Carré", which was originally erected in honor of the emperor Octavin Augustus, but over time turned into a medieval city hall, which saved the building from destruction that befell many pagan temples during the Inquisition.

Additional Information! Near the fortress of Carcassonne is the city of the same name, where you can see many old buildings and buy souvenirs.

This list is far from complete. The itinerary should definitely include the University of Montpellier, the Bridge of Gard (included in the historical and cultural heritage of UNESCO), the Temple of the Goddess Diana, Place de la Comédie, the Tour de Mans Tower, Stalactite Grottoes and many other objects.

Temple "Maison Kare"

How to get to Languedoc

When going on the road, you can choose several routes. Which of them is the most convenient, it is up to the traveler to decide:

• For tourists traveling from Moscow, it is optimal to buy tickets to Paris. Directly at the airport "Charles de Gaulle" you can take high-speed train heading to one of the most major cities region - Toulouse, Perpignan or Montpellier. The ride takes about four hours.
• You can also take the train from Paris Gare de Lyon. Trains also travel to the major cities of Roussillon.
• By car from the capital of France to the capital of the region, the city of Montpellier, as much as 750 kilometers. Perpignan is 850 kilometers away. They can be reached on the A 71 and A 75 highways. The A 20 highway leads to Toulouse.

Note! Another option is to fly to Barcelona, ​​where you can rent a car and drive along the Costa Brava straight to the area in question, which borders Spain.

Languedoc - a heavenly place in France

The area occupied by this area stretches from the Spanish border to the mouth of the Rhone River. On its territory there are many lakes and lagoons, forests with various types of trees, rocks and mountain peaks... There are balneological and ski resorts nearby.

Additional Information! Languedoc-Roussillon resorts cannot compete in luxury with Cote d'Azur, but they are much cheaper.

For tourists, the region is attractive for its low prices, many entertainments and attractions. Among aquatic species recreation available windsurfing, spearfishing, diving, yachting and, of course, relaxing on the equipped sandy beaches.

Pont du Garde

Tourists traveling here for the first time can be given a few tips:

• Tourists whose budget is not high enough to rent a room in expensive hotels, you should pay special attention to the proposals for renting rooms in boarding houses and villas located on the mountain slopes. The beach is far enough from here, but prices are several times lower than in coastal hotels.
• Having decided to stock up on a few bottles of wine, it is better to go directly to the wineries where specialty shops operate. Here, before buying, visitors will be offered a free tasting, which will allow them to evaluate the quality of the purchased product.
• An unusually mild climate with warm winters allows practically not to close the tourist season in the area. Summer is best for swimming and sunbathing. Fans of excursion walks like to visit this region France in winter, when there are fewer tourists and prices are lower.
• Languedoc-Roussillon is a region of many festivals, which also distinguishes it from some parts of France. Tourists can take part in the events held here and get closer to the traditions and culture of the peoples living here absolutely free of charge. There are events that you have to pay for, like concerts, but most of the entertainment is public.
• Wildlife lovers should go to the deltas of numerous rivers. There are many forests inhabited by hundreds of bird species, many of which are rare or even endangered. One of the most remarkable is the pink flamingo, for the sake of which not only bird watchers come here, but also ordinary travelers.
• Shopping is also one of the strengths of Languedoc. In addition to shops and boutiques in major cities, guests of the region are invited to visit local markets. It has everything from delicacies to finely crafted jewelry. But the most popular are dessert wines and rare French cheeses, which can be tasted for free.
• Bullfighting is a Spanish entertainment that lost its spectacularity after 1951, when a law was passed that greatly simplified it. Nevertheless, there will be something to see here, so you can safely go to the Bullfight held in Roussillon. There will be no blood, but positive emotions are guaranteed.

Languedoc-Roussillon is a region of France that is not known to everyone. Nevertheless, it is worth a visit, because in terms of the number of attractions, weather conditions and the hospitality of local residents, it can give odds to many well-known resorts.

* Prices are valid for September 2018

Carcassonne is one of the most interesting fortresses in Europe. During the Gallo-Roman period, its double walls were designed to protect the inhabitants of the city from enemy raids. Subsequently, the new owners of the fortress erected 52 guard towers along the entire perimeter of the walls.

The current appearance of the Carcassonne Fortress is the fruit of the 1997 free reconstruction. The fortress is a museum and is protected by the state. The entrance is paid (about 9 euros).

To the west of the fortress is the modern city of Carcassonne, where more than 45 thousand people live. A large number of ancient houses have survived in the city, making their medieval flavor into the general view of Carcassonne. Many different themed souvenirs are sold in the city.

Lower town

In the southern part of France, there is the amazingly beautiful city of Carcassonne. The city is divided into two completely different parts: the Upper City and the Lower, also known as Bastide.

The lower city stretches along the banks of the Aude, and was previously fenced with ramparts, and now it is a boulevard ring, 3 meters long. The Bastide consists of numerous residential and administrative buildings. The buildings are arranged in the form of a regular hexagon, the corners of which are decorated with high medieval bastions. All the streets of the Lower City are intercepted in one, center point- Carnot square. Most of the streets are for pedestrians only.

The main frequently visited places by tourists include the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel and the Church of St. Vincent and the Carmelites, which also adorn the Bastida.

The lower town of Carcassonne is distinguished by old buildings and structures, therefore it is protected by the state as a historical monument.

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Languedoc canal

The Languedoc Canal, the South Canal, the Canal du Midi are all names for the same waterway, which is a true masterpiece of engineering. Built in the 17th century and connecting the Atlantic with the Mediterranean Sea, the 240-kilometer Canal du Midi continues to amaze the imagination today. The construction of the canal lasted for 14 years, with 15,000 workers working on its construction. With the completion of construction in 1681, trade began to flourish in the Languedoc.

The number of various structures on the canal totals 328 objects, including locks, bridges, dams and even one 173 meter long tunnel, laid under the hill.

Thanks to the system of locks, of which there are more than a hundred on the Canal du Midi, the canal goes up and down. The total height difference is 190 meters.

The Inquisition Museum is located in medieval town Carcassonne, located in the south of France.

The museum was established on the site where in the Middle Ages the Inquisition conducted the trial of the Cathars, who were considered heretics.

The Museum of the Inquisition recalls the times when heretics were burned at the stake and subjected to various tortures. In the museum, you can see the instruments of torture and punishment used by the inquisitors: a garrot, a chastity belt, a rack, guillotines and a long-known electric chair.

Montpellier University

Montpellier University is one of the oldest in France. In the Middle Ages, he became famous all over the world, thanks to his advanced discoveries in the field of medicine. Today the university has three large museums- Museum of Anatomy, "Atger" and the Museum of Pharmacy. The library of the university is a real treasure - over one hundred thousand thematic books and 900 manuscripts are collected here.

The date of foundation of the University of Montpellier is 1220th year. Then Cardinal Konrad managed to get approval from Pope Honorius III to create a medical school. This was a turning point in the development of the school, because the patronage of such an influential person meant an absolute monopoly on education and the practice of medicine.

The most famous alumni of the university are Francois Rabelais and Nostradamus.

Garsky bridge

Garsky Bridge is included in the list of UNESCO World Historical and Cultural Heritage Sites. It was built to provide water to the city of Nîmes by order of Marcus Agrippa, who was the son-in-law of the Roman emperor Octavian Augustus. The bridge was built without the use of lime and was part of a 50-kilometer-long water pipeline. The aqueduct consists of three tiers. There are six arches in the lowest tier, eleven in the second, and thirty-five in the uppermost. The width of the arches decreases as you approach the coast. Soon after the fall of the Great Roman Empire, the aqueduct ceased to function, but despite this, the aqueduct itself was used for a long time as a bridge for carts. Some of the supports were hollowed out to ensure the passage of large vehicles, which created a threat of collapse of the entire structure. For this reason, in 1747, a new bridge, meeting the technical requirements of the time, and traffic on the Pont du Gard gradually ceased. By order of Napoleon IIII ancient monument has been refurbished.

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Jewish bath

Montpellier is mentioned in documents as early as the end of the 1st century AD. Heritage rich history the city is recorded in the monuments that have survived to this day. One of them is the ancient mikvah, or ritual Jewish bath of the 13th century, a kind of memory of the once influential local Jewish community.

The pool, or bath for ritual Jewish ablutions, is built of light limestone and is one of the best preserved of its kind in the world. The mikvah was opened as a historical monument in 1985. And today it is filled with clear water and is ready to serve for its intended purpose. However, you can only get inside with a guide. And archaeological excavations are still being carried out around.

The most popular attractions in Languedoc-Roussillon with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose best places for visiting famous places Languedoc-Roussillon on our website.

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