The Avignon Papacy and the Great Schism

Question 1

Popes outside of Rome

Answer 1

Popes often resided outside of Rome, typically in cities like Viterbo and Anagni, to seek refuge from summer heat or Roman revolts. From 1309-1403, seven legitimate Popes ruled at Avignon in Provence.

Question 2

Pope Clement V

Answer 2

In 1305, the Cardinals elected Bertrand de God as Pope, who took the name Pope Clement V. The Pope was crowned at Lyon and stayed to settle pressing matters, such as the Council of Vienne, the Templars’ affair, and the Spiritual Franciscans.

Question 3

Avignon Papacy

Answer 3

The six popes who succeeded Clement V into 1377 chose to remain in Avignon, where they fought against secular encroachments on their decrees, tightened reform of administration and finances, and engaged with secular leaders.

Question 4

Return to Rome

Answer 4

Returning the papacy to Rome was always a pressing concern. After Urban V’s failed attempt in 1367, Gregory IX returned to Italy in 1377.

Question 5

Great Schism

Answer 5

A college of largely French Cardinals elected Pope Urban VI in April 1378, but after a few weeks of a terrible relationship, they named an anti-Pope in September, Clement VII. States each followed one of the two popes, who maintained their respective obedience and courts in Rome and Avignon. This initiated the Great Western Schism, which lasted until 1417 when the Council of Constance elected Martin V.

Question 6

Consequences

Answer 6

The Avignon Papacy and Great Schism had severe consequences on the political and spiritual authority of the Church, and in the 14th and 15th centuries, old theories about papal power came under scrutiny.