Anselmo della Pusterla

Anselmo della Pusterla was the Archbishop of Milan, known as Anselm V, during a tumultuous period in the 12th century. His tenure, from June 30, 1126, to his deposition in early 1135, was marked by significant conflict arising from his political and ecclesiastical policies.

Life and Historical Context

Like many young men from Milan of his era, Anselm undertook his education abroad, studying in France. He attended institutions in Paris and Tours in 1107, and later studied under the notable scholar Anselm at Laon in 1109. This European educational experience likely shaped his broader perspective on church and state relations.

Conflict and Deposition

Upon becoming Archbishop of Milan, Anselm adopted a strong imperialist policy. His primary aim was to safeguard the traditional freedoms of the Ambrosian diocese, which often meant aligning with imperial interests against papal authority. This stance placed him in direct opposition to the citizens of Milan, who were fervent opponents of the emperor. The resulting friction led to a schism within the church in Milan. Consequently, Anselm found himself deposed from his archiepiscopal office in early 1135, although some historical sources place this event in 1133. Following his deposition, he traveled to Rome, where he died on August 14, 1136, and was buried in the Lateran basilica.