Gregory VIII
Italy·12th century·Medieval Papacy·Premonstratensian (Norbertine)
Gregory VIII, born Alberto di Morra, was Pope for two months in 1187, notable for reconciling the Papacy with the Holy Roman Empire and initiating the Third Crusade. His brief reign followed a long diplomatic career as Apostolic Chancellor, and he died after a fever in Pisa.
Key Facts
- ›Born Alberto DI Morra around 1105 in Benevento.
- ›Served as Apostolic Chancellor before becoming Pope.
- ›His pontificate lasted only 57 days.
- ›Reconciled with Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa.
- ›Called for the Third Crusade in response to the Battle of Hattin.
- ›Died of a fever in Pisa.
- Reconciled the Papacy With the Holy Roman Empire
- Initiated the Third Crusade
- Issued the Papal Bull Audita Tremendi Calling For the Third Crusade
- Worked To End Pisan Hostilities With Genoa To Support the Crusade
- Ordered the Exhumation and Removal of Antipope Victor Iv's Remains
Holy Roman Empire, Frederick I Barbarossa, Alexander Iii, Urban Iii, Adrian Iv, Thomas Becket, Henry Ii of England, Pisa, Genoa
About Gregory VIII
Pope Gregory VIII
Pope Gregory VIII, born Alberto di Morra, served as head of the Catholic Church for a brief period of two months in 1187. His pontificate, though short, was marked by significant diplomatic and religious initiatives.
Life and Historical Context
Born around 1105 in Benevento, Alberto di Morra had a distinguished career before his papacy. He was a monk, likely Premonstratensian, and later a professor of canon law in Bologna. He served in various papal roles, including cardinal-deacon and cardinal-priest, and as a papal legate throughout Europe. In this capacity, he engaged in diplomacy with prominent rulers, including Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa and King Henry II of England. He also served as Apostolic Chancellor, where he compiled influential documents that shaped papal rhetoric, leading to the 'stylus gregorianus.'
Papacy and Major Contributions
Elected Pope on October 21, 1187, Gregory VIII's primary focus was to mend divisions and address pressing issues facing Christendom. He successfully reconciled the Papacy with the Holy Roman Empire, a crucial step in stabilizing relations. In response to the devastating defeat of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem at the Battle of Hattin, he issued the papal bull Audita tremendi, calling for the Third Crusade. To support this endeavor, he also worked to end hostilities between Pisa and Genoa, ensuring their naval fleets could contribute to the crusade.
Death and Legacy
Gregory VIII died in Pisa on December 17, 1187, just 57 days into his papacy, from a fever. He was buried in the Duomo in Pisa, though his tomb was later destroyed. His pontificate, while brief, is remembered for its significant diplomatic reconciliation and the crucial call to arms for the Third Crusade, reflecting his active engagement with the political and religious landscape of his time.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Pope Gregory VIII?
Pope Gregory VIII, born Alberto di Morra, was the head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States for two months in 1187. He was elected after a long career as Apostolic Chancellor.
What were Gregory VIII's major accomplishments?
In his brief reign, Gregory VIII is notable for reconciling the Papacy with the estranged Holy Roman Empire and for initiating the Third Crusade. He issued the papal bull Audita tremendi to call for this crusade.
How long did Gregory VIII serve as Pope?
Gregory VIII served as Pope for only 57 days, from his election on October 21, 1187, until his death on December 17, 1887.
What happened to Pope Gregory VIII?
Gregory VIII died in Pisa on December 17, 1187, likely from a fever. He was buried in the Duomo in Pisa, but his tomb and remains were destroyed in a fire in the 1600s.
Related Popes
Adrian IV
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Innocent II
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Alexander III
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