Albigensians
The Albigensians were a religious group that emerged in the 12th century in southern France, particularly around the city of Albi. They followed a dualistic belief system, which viewed the material world as evil and the spiritual realm as good. This perspective was influenced by earlier Gnostic traditions and led them to reject the authority of the Catholic Church.
The Albigensians were also known as Cathars, and their beliefs prompted a significant response from the Church, culminating in the Albigensian Crusade (1209-1229). This military campaign aimed to eliminate the Cathar heresy, resulting in widespread violence and persecution against the Albigensians and their communities.