In 1244, the Dominican Inquisitor Pietro da Verona was sent to Florence by Pope Innocent IV to combat the influence of the Cathars. This policy gave rise to the first lay fraternity, dedicated to the devotion of Mary. As was often the case in the past, unanimous spiritual songs in the national language were used here to gain political influence. Whoever sang this so-called Laudi Spirituali could,
… according to a list for indulgences from the 13th century, get 140 days of remission. Arcana produced an attractive performance with a number of Laudi, arranged according to the ecclesiastical year, performed by the ensemble La Reverdie. (HJ)more
