The Treaty of Paris-Meaux had concluded the Albigensian Crusade in 1229, but local resistance has continued.

The Cathar Church is still able to operate and oppose the terror of the Inquisition that pervades the Languedoc.

The Cathar Bishop Guilhabert de Castres had in 1233 asked Raymond de Pereille for permission to make Montségur "the seat and head" (domicilium et caput) of the Cathar Church.

As a safe haven for Cathars, Montségur has gained symbolic and strategic importance in the resistance fight against the Catholic Church and the French forces in subsequent years.

Raymond VII makes a token attempt in 1241 to capture Montségur, primarily to impress the King and the Catholic Church of his allegiance.

At this time, Montségur houses about five hundred persons.