Most visitors never leave the medieval walls — this treasure hunt takes you through the Bastide Saint-Louis, the real heart of Carcassonne where locals actually live, eat and shop.

Step into the year 1688 and help Lucas Maffre, a cloth merchant in Carcassonne, solve a mystery. For generations, the Maffre family has used a warehouse that their neighbour, Séraphin Bosc, now claims as his own. Séraphin has a deed, but Lucas's wife, Marguerite, is convinced it’s a forgery. The real deed is locked in a chest, secured by three combination padlocks.

Lucas's grandfather, Balthasar Maffre, was a man who saw things others could not. Before he died, he locked the deed inside a chest and left a letter full of riddles hidden in nine places across the Bastide. Lucas has the letter and knows the nine places, but he cannot solve the riddles. That’s where you come in.

Begin your adventure at Place Carnot, where Lucas is waiting for you with Balthasar's letter. At each stop, you can read an extract from the letter. Observe, count, and write down your digit. Léo, Lucas's son, is there to help the children. Take your time; at most stops I'll give you a recommendation for a coffee/ break spot.

At the final stop, your nine digits are arranged into three groups of three. You have three attempts to enter the right combination — not one more. If you open the chest, Lucas will share his favourite addresses in the Bastide.

How does it work?

Once booked, you'll receive a link by email. Open it to discover the full storey and find your starting point: Place Carnot, in the heart of the Bastide.
At each stop, read the clue on your screen, observe what's around you, and find your digit. Tap “Next Stop” to move on. There are 9 stops in total — allow around 1h30.
Everything is text-based so you can read at your own pace, pause for a coffee, or linger as long as you like. No audio, no app to download.
At the final stop, you'll arrange your 9 digits into three groups of three and enter the combination. You have three attempts. Good luck.

What if I get stuck?

If you're truly stuck on a clue, I'll be available via WhatsApp (or phone) for assistance.

Do I need a data connection?

Yes, a basic mobile data connection is needed to load the pages as you progress. Standard 4G is more than enough — the pages are light and load quickly. We recommend downloading the first page before you set off if you're unsure about coverage in the area.