On the western wall of the Church of Saint Mary Magdalene, Saunière had an enormous fresco installed. It’s colorfulness and richness adds much to the character of the church that has been described by many a researcher as gaudy or kitsch. The fresco is positioned over the confessional.

The Fresco was placed there in 1897 together with the statues of Asmodeus, the Saints and the Stations of the Cross. What Saunière depicted here has been subject of endless debate. Among the candidates are Puivert (Jacques Rivière), the surroundings of Rennes-le-Château (Pierre Jarnac) and, Rennes-les-Bains (Ben Hammott). Continue reading →