Grossolano
Grosolanus, born Peter, served as the Archbishop of Milan from 1102 to 1112. His tenure was marked by controversy, including accusations of simony and opposition from a strong faction within the city. Despite being deposed in his absence during a pilgrimage, he maintained loyalty from some suffragans before the Pope eventually invalidated his transfer to Milan.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of Milan from 1102 to 1112.
- ›Appointed vicar of Milan by Anselm IV during his absence on the Crusade of 1101.
- ›Accused of simony in obtaining the Ambrosian see.
- ›Deposed by a council during a pilgrimage to Outremer in 1111.
- ›His transfer from Savona to Milan was declared invalid by Pope Paschal II in 1116.
- ›Succeeded by Jordan, who was later confirmed as the legitimate pontiff.
About Grossolano
Peter Grosolanus: Archbishop of Milan
Peter Grosolanus, known as Grosolanus, served as the Archbishop of Milan from 1102 to 1112. His episcopate was marked by significant challenges and disputes, including accusations of simony and internal opposition within the archdiocese.
Life and Historical Context
Grosolanus's predecessor, Anselm IV, had appointed him as his vicar during his absence on the Crusade of 1101, indicating a level of trust and responsibility prior to his own elevation. Grosolanus also held positions as the abbot of Ferrania and Bishop of Savona before becoming archbishop. His tenure in Milan was not smooth; he faced opposition from a powerful faction within the city, and accusations of simony were levied against him, though the specific accounts of how these were proven are considered legendary.
Challenges and Deposition
In 1111, Grosolanus embarked on a pilgrimage to Outremer. During his absence, a council was convened that consisted of an equal number of his supporters and opponents. This council proceeded to depose him and elected Jordan of Clivio as his successor on New Year's Day. Despite this deposition, some of Milan's suffragans, namely Atto, Bishop of Acqui, and Arderic, Bishop of Lodi, refused to recognize the new bishop and remained loyal to Grosolanus. On December 6th of the same year, Mainard, Bishop of Turin, formally deposed Grosolanus at the altar in S. Ambrogio.
Papal Intervention and Conclusion of Tenure
Grosolanus returned from his pilgrimage in August 1113. Tensions in Milan persisted due to his continued presence and the lingering support he held. The situation was finally resolved on March 11, 1116, when Pope Paschal II declared Grosolanus's transfer from the see of Savona to that of Milan to be invalid and null. Consequently, he was transferred back to Savona, and Jordan was papally confirmed for a second time as the legitimate Archbishop of Milan.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Grosolanus?
Grosolanus, born Peter, was the Archbishop of Milan from 1102 to 1112. He was previously the abbot of Ferrania and Bishop of Savona before his appointment.
What controversy surrounded Grosolanus's appointment?
Grosolanus was accused of simony in obtaining the Ambrosian see by the priest Liprand. While the specific tale of the ordeal of fire is considered an invention, he did face opposition from a strong faction in Milan.
What happened during Grosolanus's pilgrimage?
While on a pilgrimage to Outremer in 1111, a council convened in his absence and deposed him, electing Jordan of Clivio in his place. Mainard, Bishop of Turin, formally deposed Grosolanus on December 6th.
What was the resolution of Grosolanus's tenure?
Upon his return from pilgrimage, tensions remained high. In 1116, Pope Paschal II declared Grosolanus's transfer from Savona to Milan invalid, returning him to Savona and confirming Jordan as the legitimate Archbishop of Milan.
Who were Grosolanus's supporters and opponents?
Grosolanus was opposed by a strong faction in the city. During his deposition, only Atto, Bishop of Acqui, and Arderic, Bishop of Lodi, refused to do homage to the new bishop and remained loyal to Grosolanus.
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