Enrico da Settala

Enrico da Settala served as the Archbishop of Milan from 1213 until his death on September 16, 1230. His tenure was characterized by his deep involvement with the papacy, his participation in significant ecclesiastical and military events, and his struggles with the secular authorities of Milan.

Life and Historical Context

Born likely around 1175 into a noble family that had relocated to Milan, Enrico da Settala studied canon law. He began his ecclesiastical career as a papal subdeacon from 1197 and was a canon of the cathedral of Milan. His early career involved missions for the papacy in Lombardy, including efforts to influence the chapter of Novara and settle legal disputes. He also served as treasurer of Milan before his appointment as archbishop.

His election as Archbishop of Milan in 1213 was a papal appointment by Innocent III. However, due to Milan being under interdict for supporting Emperor Otto IV, Enrico remained an archbishop-elect for over five years, unable to be consecrated. He finally received consecration in August 1219 by Pope Honorius III, after Milan shifted its allegiance to Frederick II.

Major Contributions and Events

Enrico da Settala attended the Fourth Lateran Council in 1215, a pivotal event in the history of the medieval Church. Following his consecration, he participated in the Fifth Crusade (1220–1221), leading a contingent of Italian clergy and knights to Egypt. During his absence, the basilica of Sant'Eustorgio was ceded to the Order of Preachers with his permission.

Upon his return, Enrico faced significant conflict with the municipal government of Milan, leading to two periods of exile (1221–1222 and 1224–1225). These disputes involved excommunications and mediation attempts by papal legates. He was a strong supporter of new religious movements, including the Franciscans and the Dominicans, and also supported the anti-heretical movement. In 1226, he convened his own provincial synod. He also played a role in mediating disputes involving the Humiliati order at the behest of Pope Gregory IX.

Death and Legacy

Enrico da Settala died on September 16, 1230, in the archiepiscopal castle of Brebbia. His body was initially brought to the Franciscan church of San Vittore all'Olmo before being entombed in the Franciscan basilica of San Nabore in Milan. His close ties to the papacy and his active role in the religious and political landscape of 13th-century Lombardy mark his significance as a prelate of his time.