Carcassonne, France: A New Old Town

Carcassonne is a fortified city, centuries old, restored in the 19th century to look, from a distance, like something from a fairy tale.  But once inside the walls it is mostly souvenir shops and cheap cafes.  We went up the hill in the early morning to beat the tour bus crowds and take pictures in the flattering light, venturing inside only to look at the cathedral and the panoramic views.  Those fortified walls keep the tackiness and tourists confined, but walk around the outside and you can almost put yourself back in time.

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