Election of Pope Clement III
December 19th, 1187
December 19th, 1187

How Long Ago?
837 years, 2 months, 24 days ago
Location
Rome, Italy
Category
Religion & Philosophy
People
- Pope Clement III
- Paolo Scolari
- Pope Urban III
Links & References
Tags
Election of Pope Clement III
Pope Clement III was elected by the College of Cardinals, marking a significant moment in the governance of the Catholic Church. Born Paolo Scolari, he was favored for the papacy due to his diplomatic skills and previous positions within the Church. His election came during a period of political instability in both the Church and Europe, with ongoing disputes involving secular rulers and religious authority. The conclave that led to his election took place in Rome, culminating in a choice that would steer the Church during critical years of the Medieval period.
Clement III aimed to strengthen papal authority.
His election followed a deadlocked political period.
The conclave included intense discussions among cardinals.
Paolo Scolari previously held significant ecclesiastical roles.
What Happened?
The election of Pope Clement III came at a pivotal time for the Catholic Church as it navigated through various challenges of the late 12th century. Following the death of Pope Urban III, the College of Cardinals convened in Rome to elect his successor amidst the backdrop of power struggles between the Church and European monarchies. Clement III, originally named Paolo Scolari, was a skilled diplomat and had served in various high-ranking roles within the Church, including as a cardinal and papal legate. His election was indicative of the desire for stability and continuity in papal governance.
The conclave faced pressures from influential secular leaders who sought to exert control over papal decisions, especially concerning the ongoing conflicts in the Holy Land and the relationship between the Church and the Holy Roman Empire. Clement III's ascendency was seen as a means to reinforce papal authority in the face of these challenges. His papacy was marked by efforts to mediate disputes, promote the authority of the Church, and address the needs of European Christendom, particularly in light of the Crusades.
Wielding both spiritual and temporal power, Clement III worked to strengthen the Church's position and to mitigate the sectarian dynamics that characterized this era. He struggled with various political factions, yet his leadership was characterized by attempts at fostering unity within the Church and among Christian rulers. His reign as pope would influence the trajectory of the Church’s role in medieval politics and lay the groundwork for subsequent popes and the continuation of crusading efforts.
Why Does it Matter?
The election of Pope Clement III is significant as it underscores the complex relationship between secular authorities and the papacy during the Middle Ages. His leadership helped form key alliances and navigate the turbulent political landscape of the time. This election was part of the broader dynamics that shaped the structure and influence of the Catholic Church in Europe, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the role of religion in governance and societal order.
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