The suppression of the Patriarchate of Aquileia marked a significant reorganization of the Catholic Church's structure in northeastern Italy. Established in the early Middle Ages, the Patriarchate had long exerted considerable regional influence, often coming into conflict with local secular authorities. Under the leadership of Pope Benedict XIV, a series of reforms were initiated in the 18th century aimed at addressing administrative inefficiencies and consolidating ecclesiastical power. The decision to suppress the Patriarchate was not merely a local matter; it reflected the broader trends of centralization and reform that were characteristic of the church during this period.

The establishment of the new Archdiocese of Udine and Gorizia from the former patriarchy served multiple purposes. Geographically, it allowed for a more manageable church jurisdiction within the growing complexities of governance in the region. Spiritually, it aimed to strengthen the church's hold over the populace while reducing local rivalries that had previously undermined the ecclesiastical authority. The archdiocese was intended to better serve the local communities and improve pastoral care, reflecting Pope Benedict XIV's commitment to reforming church governance to better align with the needs of the faithful. The effects of this change were felt throughout the region as power dynamics shifted.

Furthermore, the suppression of the Patriarchate also provided a precedent for the Vatican's future actions in Europe, particularly in regions where local ecclesiastical governance was increasingly challenged by secularization and the rise of nation-states. By diminishing the Patriarchate's authority, the Pope not only redefined the church's presence in the region but also signaled a new approach to church-state relationships, foreshadowing the central challenges that the Catholic Church would face in the coming centuries.