Ottone Visconti

Ottone Visconti: Archbishop and First Lord of Milan

Ottone Visconti (1207 – 8 August 1295) was a pivotal figure in the history of Milan, serving as its Archbishop and becoming the first member of the Visconti family to rule the city. His tenure marked a significant shift, transforming the commune of Milan into a strong Ghibelline city and a key seat of the Holy Roman Empire in Italy. This established the Visconti as a dominant force in Lombardy for centuries to come.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Born in Invorio, Ottone was guided into an ecclesiastical career by his family. He advanced through church ranks, serving as chamberlain to Cardinal Ottaviano degli Ubaldini, who became a crucial patron. This patronage led to his appointment as an envoy to France and later as chaplain to Pope Innocent IV. Following the death of Archbishop Leone da Perego, Ottone, with the support of Cardinal Ubaldini, was put forward as a candidate for the Archdiocese of Milan. Despite opposition from Martino della Torre, the city's lord, Pope Urban IV appointed Ottone on July 22, 1262.

Power Struggle and Consolidation

Ottone's appointment ignited a fierce power struggle with the Della Torre (Torriani) family, who were historically Guelphs and allied with Charles I of Anjou, while the Visconti were Ghibellines. Martino della Torre's initial opposition, which involved occupying Milan Cathedral, led to his excommunication and the commencement of a war. Ottone faced setbacks, including a siege and surrender in 1263, and the death of Pope Urban IV. However, the Della Torre's grip weakened following internal betrayals and harsh actions, such as the execution of 53 nobles by Napoleone della Torre. Pope Gregory X, a Visconti of Piacenza, reconfirmed Ottone's position as Archbishop in 1273. After years of conflict, including the defeat and execution of Ottone's nephew Teobaldo Visconti and the subsequent decisive victory for the Visconti forces on January 27, 1277, Ottone entered Milan as its de facto ruler. Napoleone della Torre was imprisoned and tortured to death, and his brother Francesco was executed.

Rule and Final Years

Upon becoming Lord of Milan at the age of 69, Ottone focused on consolidating his family's power. His rule was marked by ongoing challenges from the Della Torre family, who still vied for control. Ottone sought alliances, notably with William VII, Marquess of Montferrat, though this alliance shifted. After reacquiring full powers, his forces defeated Cassone della Torre in the battle of Vaprio d'Adda in 1281. In his later years, Ottone began to delegate political responsibilities. In 1287, he appointed his grand-nephew Matteo I Visconti as the new Capitano generale. As the fall of Acre prompted papal appeals, Ottone was urged to convene a council and levy taxes for efforts in the Holy Land. In 1294, Matteo Visconti also secured the title of Imperial vicar. In his final years, Ottone withdrew from active politics, concentrating on religious matters. He died on August 8, 1295, and was buried in Milan Cathedral.