Aigues-Mortes - Town Walls

The massive Aigues-Mortes town walls took over 30 years to build; they form a rectangle which is still complete and which surrounds the town. The ring of walls has 15 towers and is penetrated by 10 gates, some protected by towers; it comprises an area with sides measuring 567m/620yds, 497m/544yds, 301m/329yds and 269m/292yds.

Because of the narrow streets in the Old Town a visit on foot is recommended. There are parking lots on the northern edge of the Old Town, near the Tour de Constance (fee-paying) and outside the southwest town wall.

The tour of the ring of walls starts at the Porte de la Gardette, a few yards east of the Tour de Constance. A broad path inside the wall enabled the defenders of the town to get quickly from one place to another to repulse invaders.

It is also worthwhile following the ring of walls on the outside. There is a fine view of the Tour de Constance to be had from bridge which spans the canal, the Chenal Maritime. The southwest front - of cyclopean proportions, measuring nearly 500m/550yds in length - is particularly impressive. At one time the quays were situated here, which is why it has the most defensive towers.