In the context of escalating tensions between France and the papacy, Guillaume de Nogaret, a trusted adviser of King Philip IV of France, orchestrated a bold raid on Pope Boniface VIII in Anagni, Italy. The confrontation was largely provoked by Boniface's assertion of papal supremacy and his refusal to acquiesce to Philip's demands regarding taxation of the clergy, which had been an ongoing point of contention. The king sought to undermine the Pope's authority, especially after the pope issued a bull that challenged the king's right to tax Church property, prompting a fierce backlash from the French monarch.

On the day of the incident, de Nogaret and a contingent of armed guards stormed the papal residence, capturing Boniface and holding him captive. During this tumultuous encounter, the Pope was publicly humiliated and reprimanded, famously stating, “You cannot do this; I am Pastor of the Church!” This bold action not only showcased de Nogaret's ruthless dedication to his king but also served as a stark illustration of the weakening of papal power in the face of rising national monarchies.

The boldness of this act sent shockwaves across Europe, drawing reactions from various monarchs and the Church alike. Boniface was eventually rescued, but the conflict set a precedent for the ongoing struggle for power between secular leaders and the papacy. This event would play a pivotal role in the decline of the papal authority in the subsequent century, illustrating the growing dominance of state power in contrast to religious control. The Anagni incident marked a dramatic moment of confrontation that echoed throughout European politics.