The landmark of Carcassonne is the completely preserved medieval town, visible from afar. It is surrounded by a massive fortification wall. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage was then an important retreat for the Catharians, Mary Magdalene’s descendants. Nevertheless, in the hot and dry August of 1209, the fortress town could only resist occupation by the crusaders from the north of France, for a few days. The governor of the castle was captured by the crusaders and died in prison a few days later. All the inhabitants had to leave the town without any belongings.