The Dove of Stone Jigsaw Puzzle

At the center, a large rock standing vertically has irregular and natural contours. Its surface is textured and ochre/brown in color. In the upper part of the stone, an opening has been carved in the shape of a dove in full flight. This symbol of peace and freedom allows the sky to be seen in the background. Directly carved into the rock in the middle, the Occitan inscription « ALS CATARS » (To the Cathars) can be read, surmounting the year « 1210 ». This date refers to the siege of Minerve during the Albigensian Crusade, which resulted in the first large collective burning in the region. At the foot of the stele, a few branches of olive or laurel are laid as a sign of contemplation. To the right, a rose laurel bush (or a similar shrub) borders the monument. To the left, in the background, one can see the roof and dry stone wall of a building, as well as a landscape of hills or steep gorges typical of the Minerve region under a clear sky.