Trivalle Street

You are now in Trivalle Street, located in the oldest neighborhood of Carcassonne. It winds along the path of an ancient Roman road that once connected Narbonne to Toulouse, making it quite possibly the city’s most historic street in Carcassonne. In fact, it was once a busy thoroughfare. Imagine a time before the 19th century, when the Pont-Vieux was the sole bridge in the city across the Aude river. So all travelers entering Carcassonne had to pass through this bustling street, leading right up to the bridge. Merchants would come here to trade their wares, and then spend the night in the many inns lining the street, all a stone’s throw from the fortified city. To this day, you’ll find antique shops, art galleries and traditional restaurants and cafés, reminiscent of its historical past. Street performers often add to the lively atmosphere, miming, painting, and performing to entertain visitors. Plus, it’s a shopper’s paradise! Keep your eyes peeled for geckos, these sizable Asian lizards that have made their way all over the globe, even here in Carcassonne. A little further down the road, at number 125, you’ll find the half-timbered Montmorency residence, a stunning three-storey building dating back to the 16th century. It’s about a ten-minute walk ahead. You’ll recognize it by its charming façade and its majestic turret. Such buildings are rare around here, as the Trivalle street, and the whole district, were badly hit during the Wars of Religion. So be sure to make the detour to see it! But first, we’re going to walk past the house at 77, the birthplace of historian Jean-Pierre Cros-Mayrevieille, the very reason the Carcassonne citadel still stands today. Off you go!