Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The Museum of the Inquisition of Carcassonne is located in the heart of the medieval city, in the department of Aude. It traces the turbulent history of the Inquisition in this region, marked by the repression of heretics, especially the cathars. A collection of torture instruments, some of which are controversial reconstitutions such as the iron virgin, is exhibited to illustrate the methods used.

In 1234, a Dominican Inquisition Court was established in Carcassonne, with extensive powers granted by Pope Gregory IX. As early as 1237, the repression intensified under the direction of Inquisitor Ferrier, nicknamed "the hammer of heretics". The excesses of the inquisitors provoked complaints, such as that of the Consul of Carcassonne in 1286, denouncing their cruelty. The population, supported by the Franciscan Bernard Delicieux, managed to temporarily chase the Inquisitor General in 1303, before his arrest and conviction.

The Inquisition was restored and continued until the early 14th century. In 1321, Guilhem Belibaste, the last Cathar dignitary, was burned alive in Villerouge-Termenès, marking the symbolic end of this repression. The museum also maintains archives, such as the court clerk's register (1249-1257), available online. However, some exposed objects, such as the iron virgin, are later inventions, dating back to the 19th century.

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