Ernst Adalbert von Harrach
Ernst Adalbert von Harrach was an Austrian Catholic Cardinal who served as the Archbishop of Prague and Prince-Bishop of Trento. He was an influential figure in the Kingdom of Bohemia, experiencing significant upheaval during his tenure, including arrest by Swedish forces.
Key Facts
- ›Appointed Archbishop of Prague in 1623.
- ›Also served as Prince-Bishop of Trento.
- ›Experienced arrest and loss of wealth when Swedish forces took control of a section of Prague.
- ›Released after intercession by Cardinal Jules Mazarin.
- ›Visited Rome rarely; one visit in 1643 was considered a bad omen by Pope Urban VIII.
About Ernst Adalbert von Harrach
Ernst Adalbert von Harrach (1598–1667) was an Austrian Catholic Cardinal who held significant ecclesiastical positions, most notably as the Archbishop of Prague and the Prince-Bishop of Trento. His life and career were marked by both high ecclesiastical office and periods of considerable turmoil.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Vienna on November 4, 1598, Ernst Adalbert von Harrach was educated by Nikolaus Walther. His family's connections to prominent Italian aristocratic families, such as the Borghese and Barberini, facilitated his admission to the Collegio Teutonico in 1616. He was ordained a priest at the age of 22 in 1621 and subsequently became the Archbishop of Prague in 1623.
During his tenure as primate to the Kingdom of Bohemia, Harrach experienced the impact of conflict. He was arrested at his palace when Swedish forces occupied a section of Prague, resulting in the loss of a substantial portion of his wealth. His release was secured through the intercession of Cardinal Jules Mazarin with Queen Christina of Sweden, who also provided him with 15,000 écus and a letter promising no revenge.
Harrach's visits to Rome were infrequent. One such visit in 1643 was notable; Pope Urban VIII reportedly viewed it as a bad omen, implying that the Cardinal would typically only visit during a papal conclave, which followed a Pope's death.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Ernst Adalbert von Harrach born?
Ernst Adalbert von Harrach was born on November 4, 1598.
What were his main ecclesiastical roles?
He was appointed Archbishop of Prague and served as Prince-Bishop of Trento.
Did he hold the rank of Cardinal?
Yes, Ernst Adalbert von Harrach was an Austrian Catholic Cardinal.
What significant event occurred during his time as Archbishop of Prague?
He was arrested at his palace when Swedish forces took over a section of Prague, and he lost a significant part of his wealth.
How did his visit to Rome in 1643 impact the Pope?
His visit to Rome in 1643 was rare, so much so that Pope Urban VIII is said to have considered it a bad omen.
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