# Waldensians (c. 1173)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/1173-waldensians
Location: Lyon, France
Themes: Theology

Peter Waldo of Lyon begins preaching apostolic poverty, founding the Waldensian movement. At this point in the timeline (c. 1173), the Bishop of Rome was Pope Alexander III (7 September 1159 – 30 August 1181). His claim was contested by Antipope Callixtus III.

## Why it matters
Waldensians mattered because it shaped how Christians understand God, Christ, salvation and the church.

Pope at the time: [Pope Alexander III](https://christianity-history.com/popes/pope-alexander-iii)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Waldensians](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waldensians)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Waldensians](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Waldensians)
- [Wikipedia — Medieval Church (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Catholic_Church#Middle_Ages)