Aigues-Mortes:  The Fortified City of St. Louis

The town of Aigues-Mortes ("Dead Water") lies in a swampy plain on the coast of the Mediterranean. The town was founded in 1240 by Louis IX (aka, St Louis), who wanted a French seaport from which to launch the 7th crusade (1248) and 8th crusade (1270). The pious king died of dysentery in North Africa in 1270.

Because it was a planned community, the streets of Aigues-Mortes are laid out in a rectilinear grid, which is very unusual for towns of this period. The city is still guarded by the massive Constance Tower (the walls are 6 meters thick) and a four-sided city wall with multiple gates and guard towers.

For a small picture album, click here.