3 fortified cities that still exist around the world 

Many civilizations have built stone walls as the first line of defence around their settlements. These were meant to protect the inhabitants and keep animals and enemies out of the vicinity. Known as fortified cities, they expanded far beyond their original territorial boundaries or witnessed their walls being demolished, leaving only traces of their glorious history. London and Delhi are good examples of such cities, where you can see still see ruins of destroyed walls within the city. However, there are several cities with these walls built in the medieval have endured the wrath of man and time! Let’s explore such fortified cities that still exist around the world! 

Quebec, Canada 
Quebec is one of the few North American cities that has managed to preserve its fortified line of defence. One of the first European settlements in North America, Quebec City was founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, a French explorer. The first fortified wall was built facing the Plains of Abraham in 1690. Later in 1716, architect Gaspard Chaussegros de Léry replaced continuous stone fortification in place of the 11 stone redoubts connected by a wooden stockade. In 1820-1830s, another architect named Gother Mann made additional changes to the fortified walls which used to safeguarded the town at a time when the French and British were vying for control of North America. Since the gates and a portion of the wall were destroyed in the battles it was involved in during the 19th century, it is a miracle that this ancient city survived. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. 

Carcassonne, France 
The largest old fortress in Europe, Carcassonne, is an ancient walled city perched high on a hill in the Languedoc area of Southern France. The hill on which Carcassonne persists has been a fortified town for generations and was famed for its strong, defended walls, jagged turrets, drawbridges, and cobblestone streets. It was originally an Iron Age Oppidum (fortified town from Iron Age). 

Who built it originally is still not clear. However, Iberians occupied the hamlet in the early 5th century BC, followed by Gallo-Romans in late 5th century BC. During the reign of  Euric I of the Visigoths, an inner rampart was constructed in 485 AD. The city's outside wall and inner rampart were completed in the 13th century. It was significant throughout French history because of its location. The old fortifications of the city had fallen into decay in the 17th century and were renovated, thanks to architect Viollet-le-Duc who repaired it in the 19th century. In 1997, the walled city was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the last ‘living forts’ along with Jaisalamer, India.  

Mexico City, Mexico
The City of Mexico rose to prominence historically as the Aztec (Mesoamerican civilisation that thrived in Mexico) Capital. After chasing the Aztecs out, the Spaniards (Spanish people of the Romance ethnic group)  took control of the area and made it their capital. Tenochtitlan was established as the capital city in 1325 and served as the Aztec empire's capital until it was conquered by the Spanish in 16th century. Construction on the city's defences began around 1521. Numerous colonial-era structures can be found throughout Mexico City. It was the largest metropolis in pre-Columbian America at the height of its glory. The city's ruins can still be located in Mexico City's downtown.