Albigensians was the usual name given to the heretics, especially the Catharists, of southern France in the 12th and 13th century. Their doctrines is believed to be of Gnostic origin.

The name originates from the end of the 12th century, and was used in 1181 by the chronicler Geoffroy de Vigeois. The name refers to the southern town of Albi (the ancient Albiga.) The designation is hardly exact, for the heretical centre was at Toulouse and in the neighbouring districts.

For an in-depth article about the Cathars see Cathars

See also :

• Albigensian Crusade