The city of Aigues-Mortes was started in the thirteenth century when King Louis IX decided that France needed a Mediterranean port to compete with the likes of Genoa and Pisa.  This medieval fortress was used by the King to start crusades, but changes in the geography of France and the silting of the passage between the fortress and the sea meant that this city quickly faded in importance being used largely as a prison since the 14th century.

Today Aigues-Mortes is a well preserved medieval town with impressive walls and the narrow winding streets typical of a walled city.  We visited late one afternoon for a wander and dinner.  As this was near the end of our vacation, our energy was flagging and not even Perri was too excited about heavy duty exploring.  A great meal and the night view of the illuminated walls made the visit worthwhile. 

 

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Page created on 03 Jan 2002