Medieval Inquisition

The Medieval Inquisition was a collection of Church-led efforts in the 12th to 15th centuries aimed at identifying, investigating, and punishing heresy—beliefs that contradicted Catholic doctrine. Initially focused on groups like the Cathars and Waldensians, it involved interrogations and trials conducted by inquisitors. The goal was to maintain religious uniformity and combat perceived threats to the Church’s authority. Unlike the later Spanish Inquisition, it operated under local bishops and was instrumental in shaping the Church’s approach to dissent and maintaining its influence during the Middle Ages.