Cathars

(Revision as of 05:07, 25 Sep 2004)

Sometimes called the Cathari, were a Manichaen sect very similar to the Albigenses (found in Western Europe, Northern Italy, France, Germany, and Flanders). They flourished chiefly in the 11th and 12th centuries. Pope Innocent III proclaimed a crusade against them, but they seemed to grow under the persecution.

Some link the appearance of the Tarot with the Cathars and the Albigenses. It is said that they preached their version of the Gospel using the cards of the Major Arcana.