Just a bit more about Aigues-Mortes

Not only was this a trading port but also the point of departure for those going on a crusade. The town came about through king Louis IX, who also became known as Saint Louis, in the 13th century. His plan for the town was just about finished when he left in 1248 to go on the 7th crusade to Jerusalem. The walls were not actually finished till early 14th century. The town is enclosed on 4 sides by ramparts, herisse de tours et perce de portes.( with towers and gates).
This port was also the only way to get into France from the sea. Nearby there are mountains of salt, extracted from the sea. In earlier times, salt was used as a form of money and those who could produce it became very wealthy. Salt was even used as a form of revenue earning. Imagine paying your tax with salt!
Port de commerce et depart pour les croisades, ne de la volonte du roi Saint Louis, Aigues-Mortes fut l'unique acces maritime au royaume de France. Louis embarqua pour la septieme croisade en 1248. Le plan de la ville etait presque termine.
Other important things about this place is that it is not only one of the most spectacular medieval strongholds in all of Europe, but also one of the best preserved. Cette forteresse des sables (sand), intacte et preservee, est aujourd'hui l'une des fortifications medievales les plus spectaculaires et les mieux conservees d'Europe.

A fascinating place. I loved it.