ABSTRACT
During the High Middle Ages, the concept of beata stirps (holy stock or roots) came to prominence in royal and noble families throughout Europe. It was believed that a tendency towards sanctity could be transmitted through bloodlines, much like royal power. Being of beata stirps, preferably with papally authorized canonizations, was desirable, as it enhanced the reputation of one’s family. Perhaps the best-known example of this in effect was the later reign of Philippe IV of France (r.1285–1314). After the canonization of Louis IX (r.1226–70) in 1297 by Pope Boniface VIII (r.1295–1303), Philippe’s power escalated over both Church and State within France, climaxing with the Templar trials and having the long-term effect of creating an increasingly conciliatory Papacy. 1
