Part 1, Chapter 2, The Cathars and the Great Heresy Summary

The authors begin their research with the Cathars because they are already familiar with the story and know it fits in with the mystery surrounding Rennes-le-Chateau. Many of the Cathars resided in the area and were persecuted there and their legacy still thrives there. It was also known that Sauniere was a student of history and of local history particularly. Sauniere also had friends among a cultural society that dealt in Cathar teachings. Finally, there was a statement on one of the parchments Sauniere found that was clearly of Cathar origin.

The Albigensian Crusade. In 1209, armies from northern Europe descended on what is now southern France. During this war, the entire territory was destroyed, towns and cities demolished, and whole populations put to death. This war possibly was the...