The Hôtel de la Cité is an emblematic historic establishment located in the heart of the medieval city of Carcassonne, France. Nestling within the ramparts of this UNESCO World Heritage listed fortified town.
The Hôtel de la Cité, founded in 1906 by Michel Jordy and Jean Cadenat, is a pearl of French heritage located in the heart of the medieval city of Carcassonne. These two men set about creating a prestigious hotel in this historic city, in response to the boom in tourism triggered by the city's inclusion in the Touring Club de France guide in 1904. L'hôte de la Cité was built in 1909 and underwent two major phases of renovation in 1913 and 1927. For some time, it was the only hotel within the city walls.
The hotel quickly became a landmark, particularly in the 1920s, and it continues to welcome prestigious guests, including famous figures such as Colette, Sir Winston Churchill, Princess Grace of Monaco, and even artists such as Sting and the band Deep Purple. The hotel's visitors' book bears witness to these memorable visits, offering a glimpse into the past.
The hotel's neo-Gothic architecture impresses right from the entrance, where a carved wooden fresco depicting key figures in the history of the Cité, such as Simon de Montfort and Saint Dominique, creates a solemn atmosphere. The grand wooden staircase, a listed historic monument, adds a touch of majesty to the premises.
The interior spaces are imbued with a warm elegance: the Salle des Correspondances, now the hotel's Bar Bibliothèque with its leather armchairs, offers a peaceful setting for reading and relaxing, while the fireplace in the lounge, enlivened every evening by jazz piano music, creates a cosy and refined atmosphere. The Hôtel de la Cité successfully combines history, luxury and hospitality, offering visitors a unique experience.
To mark the Heritage Days,
September 20 & 21, The Hôtel de la Cité opens its doors for an immersive experience at the heart of history.
Saturdays: 10.30am - 2pm - 4pm
Sundays: 10.30 am - 3.30 pm.
Visits by appointment: 04 68 71 98 71.
