Travel Guide Aigues Mortes

A fortified old town with a population of 8,000, Aigues-Mortes, whose Latin name means "dead waters", boasts a prestigious heritage. Set like a stone jewel in the heart of the Petite Camargue, in a world of salt marshes and lagoons, between land and water, the medieval city lacks neither charisma nor character. The town, sometimes referred to as "Little Carcassonne", was built over a period of fifty years in the 13th century, at the instigation of King Louis IX, who wanted to create a city on the Mediterranean with a port from which crusaders could embark for the Holy Land. More than 700 years later, this fortified city has preserved its ramparts and Constance tower to the delight of residents and visitors alike. Directly linked to the open sea by a 6 km-long canal, which takes lovers of walking, cycling or barge trips to the town of Grau-du-Roi, Aigues-Mortes has become a very active and dynamic tourist center. The third weekend in August sees the town cement its reputation with the famous Saint-Louis medieval festival. Throughout the year, the town welcomes many visitors who enjoy strolling through the typical streets of Aigues-Mortes, looking for a nice store, a pretty gallery or simply a pleasant terrace to stroll on. Aigues-Mortes, with its rich history, natural environment and salt marsh industry, is now part of the fourteenth Grand Site de France.