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Alexander VIIPope from April 7, 1655 to May 22, 1667
Date of Birth: 13.02.1599
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Papacy
- Reception of Michał Boym
- Condemnation of Jansenism
- Patron of the Arts
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Born on February 13, 1599, into a wealthy banking family, Fabio Chigi received a comprehensive education and entered the priesthood, later joining the papal service.
Papacy
Elected Pope on April 7, 1655, despite French opposition, Pope Alexander VII inherited a legacy of nepotism, which he moderated due to the Chigi family's ample fortune. His papacy was marked by strained relations with France.
Reception of Michał Boym
In December 1655, Alexander VII received Polish Jesuit Michał Boym, who brought messages from the Ming court in China. The delegation sought the Pope's assistance against the Manchu invaders, but their hopes were not realized.
Condemnation of Jansenism
Following in the footsteps of his predecessors, Alexander VII condemned Jansenist rigorism.
Patron of the Arts
A patron of the Baroque arts, Alexander VII commissioned architectural masterpieces in Rome, including the magnificent Bernini columns in St. Peter's Square.
Legacy
Despite his title as Pope, Alexander VII was described by his personal secretary as being more focused on tranquility than on ecclesiastical administration. He died on May 22, 1667, leaving a mixed legacy of political and artistic achievements.
