Aude, Administrative division in Occitania, France
Aude is an administrative division in Occitania that runs from the Mediterranean coastline to the foothills of the Pyrenees, covering hundreds of towns and villages. The territory is divided into three districts—Carcassonne, Limoux, and Narbonne—each with its own administrative center.
This territory was formed in March 1790 during the French Revolution from parts of the former province of Languedoc. Carcassonne was named the capital and has since managed the central administrative functions.
Vineyards shape much of the countryside, and many villages still follow methods passed down through generations, such as pressing grapes by hand or drying vegetables in the open air. In small towns you might hear Occitan spoken at weekly markets, where older residents use the language for conversations among neighbors.
Travelers should keep in mind that distances between the coast and the mountains are considerable, so it helps to plan which region to explore in advance. Each of the three districts has its own center with information offices that offer guidance and local advice.
The river Aude runs through the entire region from south to north, supplying water to fields and vineyards along the way. Poplar and willow trees line its banks, offering shade for walkers during summer months.
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