Porte Narbonnaise
The main east gate of the old city. Its twin towers, drawbridge, and the statue of Dame Carcas make up Carcassonne's most iconic view on arrival.
Built at the end of the 13th century, the Porte Narbonnaise is flanked by two massive round towers, with an outer barbican, a moat, and a drawbridge in front. It is the main entrance to the old city, and cars and tour buses stop outside it. At the bridgehead is a head sculpture of Dame Carcas, the legendary woman said to have outwitted Charlemagne's army. Entry is free. Once through the gate, you can walk straight into the old city's main street, or turn onto the Lices on either side. The area in front of the gate is the most popular photo spot, and it is even more spectacular when lit up at night.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château Comtal
- Les Lices
- Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus
- Pont Vieux
- Bastide Saint-Louis
- Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne
- Église Saint-Vincent