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The rigorous classification of sources by chronological strata gives new focus to the historiographical debate created by the foundation of the Beaulieu-lès-Loches monastery. Political strategies for domination of the Val de Loire and spiritual deliverance are closely entwined. After speeding up the construction of the basilica in the years 1005 to 1008, Fulk Nerra, count of the Angevins, had to contend with the hostile archbishop of Tours. Subject as a vassal to the rival house of Blois, the Archbishop refused to consecrate his foundation. Prior to the council of Chelles (May 16th-17th), Fulk had the royal favourite and member of the blesois party, Hugues de Beauvais, murdered. Fleeing accusations of lese majesty (high treason), he travelled to Rome as a pilgrim where Pope John XVIII accorded him protection in exchange for penance. At the end of May, 1008, he sent Cardinal Pierre of Piperno to consecrate Beaulieu, and to intervene in the conflict between the bishop of Orleans and the Fleury abbey. By the end of the year 1008, the count of the Angevins had left for a penitential pilgrimage to Jerusalem, arriving just before the destruction of the Holy Sepulchre. He thus escaped any secular punishment and was able to return with renewed glory. Recourse to Rome, from thereon, proved a clever means of resolving local conflict.