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Gregory XPope from September 1, 1271 to January 10, 1276
Date of Birth: 01.01.1210
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Early Life
- Election to the Papacy
- Coronation
- East-West Reunion Attempt
- Political Resolutions
- Conclave Regulations
- Other Decrees
- Death and Legacy
Early Life
Teobaldo Viscontiwas born in Piacenza, Italy. Despite his Italian origin, he held the position of Archdeacon of Liège, which is now in Belgium.
Election to the Papacy
Vacancy of the Papal SeeAfter the death of Pope Clement IV, the papal throne remained vacant for an unprecedented three years. The cardinals were unable to agree on a successor until they decided to elect a non-cardinal, Cardinal Teobaldo Visconti, who was absent in Palestine with the crusaders.
Coronation
Visconti was crowned as Pope Gregory X on March 27, 1273.Reign as Pope Gregory X
Second Council of Lyon
Faced with a failed crusade, a precarious situation in the Latin Empire in the East, and chaos in Germany, Italy, and Sicily, Gregory X convened the Second Council of Lyon (1274). He envisioned it as the most magnificent of Christian councils.
East-West Reunion Attempt
Around 500 bishops from the West and East attended the council, along with representatives from European royal courts. Gregory X attempted to reunite Eastern and Western Christianity by having representatives of the Eastern church sing the "Credo" with him. However, the attempt failed.
Political Resolutions
The council focused on political issues, granting royal and ducal crowns. A delegation from the Tatar Khanate proposed an alliance against the Turks, although this did not materialize. Notably, one of the Tatar ambassadors converted to Christianity.
Conclave Regulations
Establishment of the Timed ConclaveGregory X issued a crucial regulation regarding papal elections. Cardinals were required to assemble in conclave no later than 10 days after the pope's death. They were to be isolated from the outside world and forbidden from communicating with anyone. Their diet would be reduced if they failed to elect a pope within three days and restricted to bread and water after a week of unsuccessful discussions.
Other Decrees
The council also limited the accumulation of church offices and revenues. It recognized Rudolf of Habsburg as the King of Germany (1273-1291).
Death and Legacy
Gregory X died shortly after the conclusion of the council while traveling to Arezzo, Italy. He was beatified by the Catholic Church in 1713.
