Guido da Velate
Guido da Velate served as the Archbishop of Milan from 1045 until his death in 1071, though he simoniacally abdicated in 1067. Initially chosen by the people in opposition to the nobility, his tenure was marked by conflict with papal reforms and the Patarines due to his simoniac practices and refusal to abide by certain compromises. Despite an abdication and attempts by reformers to settle matters, he was eventually convinced to return to his post.
Key Facts
- ›Archbishop of Milan from 1045 until his death in 1071.
- ›Chosen by the people in opposition to the nobility's choice.
- ›Confirmed as archbishop by Emperor Henry III.
- ›Opposed papal reforms and the Patarines who sought to outlaw clerical marriage.
- ›Was a simoniac himself.
- ›Simoniacally abdicated in 1067, recommending his successor to Emperor Henry IV for a price.
About Guido da Velate
Guido da Velate (also known as Guy or Wido) was the Archbishop of Milan from 1045 until his death in 1071. His tenure was marked by significant conflict and controversy, particularly in relation to the burgeoning Pataria movement and papal reforms.
Life and Historical Context
Guido was appointed archbishop during a turbulent period in Milan, when the Pataria movement was gaining momentum. This movement aimed to reform the church by outlawing clerical marriage and concubinage. Guido himself was a simoniac, meaning he engaged in the buying and selling of church offices, and he actively opposed the papal reforms. He also refused to adhere to the compromise of 1044, which would have curtailed his authority, leading to further friction with the communards, lesser nobility, and the reformist factions.
Abdication and Return
Following the death of Emperor Henry III in 1056, papal legates were sent to Milan to address the ongoing issues, but with little lasting success. The peace brokered was frequently broken. In 1067, Guido simoniacally abdicated his position, recommending the subdeacon Gotofredo da Castiglione to Emperor Henry IV for a price. However, Guido was later persuaded by Anselm of Baggio, who had become Pope Alexander II, to repent and return to his archiepiscopal see. He remained in office until his death a few years later. Despite Guido's return, Emperor Henry IV later attempted to appoint Gotofredo uncanonically.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Guido da Velate the Archbishop of Milan?
Guido da Velate served as the Archbishop of Milan from 1045 until his death in 1071. He did, however, simoniacally abdicate in 1067.
How was Guido da Velate chosen as archbishop?
Guido da Velate was chosen as successor to Aribert by the people of Milan. This choice was made in opposition to the choice of the nobility and was subsequently confirmed by Emperor Henry III.
What were Guido da Velate's stances on papal reforms?
Guido da Velate opposed papal reforms and the Patarines, who sought to outlaw clerical marriage and concubinage. He was himself a simoniac and refused to abide by the compromise of 1044, which would have limited his powers.
Did Guido da Velate remain archbishop until his death?
Guido da Velate abdicated his see in 1067. However, he was later convinced by Anselm of Baggio, who had become pope, to repent of his abdication and return to his post, where he remained until his death a few years later.
What was the Pataria movement?
The Pataria was a movement gaining force in Milan during Guido da Velate's time as archbishop. It sought to outlaw clerical marriage and concubinage, and its influence contributed to the riot and unrest that was a daily affair in the city.
Related Archbishops
Galdino della Sala
Galdino della Sala was a Roman Catholic saint, cardinal, and Archbishop of Milan from 1166 until his death in 1176. A staunch supporter of Pope Alexander III and Milan in their struggles against Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa, he is also remembered for his charity to the poor and indebted in Milan. He was canonized by Pope Alexander III and is a patron of Lombardy and his former archdiocese.
Gotofredo da Castiglione
Gotofredo da Castiglione was an Italian anti-bishop of Milan from 1070 to 1075, appointed by Emperor Henry IV. His appointment initiated the Investiture Controversy, leading to his excommunication by Pope Gregory VII. He was eventually recanted as bishop following the Walk to Canossa.
Anno II
Anno II was the Archbishop of Cologne from 1056 until his death in 1075. He served as regent of the Holy Roman Empire for the young Emperor Henry IV from 1063 to 1065. Venerated as a saint, Anno was known for his asceticism, reformist leanings, and significant political influence during a turbulent period in imperial history.