Medieval Fortress of Carcassonne, France

Perched atop a hillside under a dramatic sky, the medieval fortress walls encircle this historic French city in Languedoc-Roussillon. Stone battlements line the ramparts that offer panoramic views over the surrounding countryside while five formidable towers stand guard at regular intervals. A cobblestone pathway leads through an arched gateway inviting exploration into one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities.