Discover Narbonne by Hire Car
Narbonne is a medium-sized city in the Languedoc-Rousillon region of southern France, with just under 47,000 inhabitants spread over 172 square kilometres.
Founded as early as 118 BC, Narbonne was then the first Roman colony outside the Italian boot.
At that time, one of the most important Roman roads, the Via Dormitia, passed through the city, connecting Italy with Spain via Gallic Narbonne.
Sights in Narbonne
Throughout history the town was dominated by the Goths, but also by the Moors until in the early Middle Ages it became the centre of the Cathars, a Christian religious community that was later also persecuted by the Catholic Church. The fascinating Saint-Just Cathedral, built in Narbonne between 1272 and 1332, also dates from this period. With a choir height of 41 metres, it is one of the highest in France. However, the imposing building in neo-Gothic style with its embrasures and mighty buttresses is more reminiscent of a medieval fortress than a place of worship. From the north tower of the complex, however, you have a fantastic view over Narbonne and its surroundings.
Also worth seeing here are the remains from Roman times. First and foremost the Horreum, an old granary, which is laid out as a cryptoporticus, i.e. underground, in impressive archways. No less interesting are the still preserved parts of the Via Dormita in the historical city centre of Narbonne. A walk along the banks of the Robine is also picturesque. There, the Promenade des Barques and the picturesque Pont des Marchands, surrounded by tranquil squares, are particularly inviting places to stroll.
Discovering the surroundings of Narbonne
With a hire car, the nearby Mediterranean Sea is also within easy reach.