Abstract

This article studies the practice of furta sacra (sacred theft) by the monasteries of Conques and Vézelay in medieval France. Specifically, it examines how the veneration of Saints Foy and Mary Magdalene’s relics during the tenth and eleventh centuries turned these monasteries into significant pilgrimage destinations and increased their status on the medieval pilgrimage route Camino de Santiago. Through an analysis of scholarly literature, the author tracked the development of relic worship and narrative story building in these two monasteries and discusses how these monasteries influenced perceptions of the spiritual value of these relics and strategically supported the identity and appeal of these sites as places of pilgrimage. Initially, these actions were considered “sacred thefts” and were morally controversial. However, as the story was retold, perceptions of the theft of sacred objects changed in both ecclesiastical and secular spheres. These stories provided justification for the theft of relics, and over time the stories led people to believe that the theft of these relics was sanctioned by a god or a higher power. This shows the important role of narrative in shaping social and religious ideas. In essence, this analysis demonstrates that monasteries’ strategic use of relics and associated traditions enhances both their spiritual and moral authority and their influence and power. Furthermore, this study provides insights into how the practice of sacred theft justified social and religious actions in medieval times and offers a new perspective on the relationship between religion and power in medieval European pilgrimage routes in the tenth and eleventh centuries.