Parisian church where Saunière took the parchments to be decoded. Built in 1645 on the site of Saint-Germain des Prés, original burial ground of Merovingian kings. Centre of sedition and heresy, and of the Compagnie de Sacrément. One of its founders was Nicolas Pavillon, bishop of Alet, where Saunière had his first priestly appointment. Paris Zero Meridian marker set in brass in its floor. Its design and decoration all demonstrate its activities to those “in the know”. Saunières’ church said to be decorated in imitation of Saint Sulpice.