Located in southwestern France, Carcassonne was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.  Surrounded by nearly two miles of walls and 56 strategically placed watchtowers, this medieval castle town is still bustling with life.. First settled more than 5,500 years ago, Carcassonne was struck from the roster of official fortifications by Napoleon, but a massive restoration in the late 19th century preserved this strategic trade center and stronghold for future generations.