Pope Innocent II is elected.

Pope Innocent II (Latin: Innocentius II), born Gregorio Papareschi, served as the revered head of the Catholic Church and sovereign ruler of the Papal States from February 14, 1130, until his death on September 24, 1143. His pontificate, spanning thirteen years, was profoundly shaped by one of the most significant and divisive ecclesiastical conflicts of the 12th century: a protracted struggle for legitimate recognition against a rival claimant to the papal throne, Anacletus II.

Hailing from the prominent Roman noble family of the Papareschi, Gregorio's early career saw him rise through the ecclesiastical ranks. He became a cardinal deacon, indicating his experience within the Curia and his deep understanding of church administration long before his controversial election.

The Contentious Papal Election of 1130 and the Schism

The death of Pope Honorius II in February 1130 plunged the Church into an immediate and deep schism. Gregorio Papareschi's election as Innocent II was highly controversial, stemming from a double election engineered by two opposing factions within the College of Cardinals. A minority, but powerful, group of cardinals, including those aligned with the influential Frangipani family, swiftly elected Gregorio Papareschi on the very day of Honorius II's death, choosing a swift, private procedure. In contrast, a larger faction of cardinals, predominantly supported by the equally powerful Pierleoni family, held a separate, more public election a day later, selecting Pietro Pierleoni, who took the name Anacletus II.

This unprecedented division created a nearly eight-year-long papal schism, a period of profound uncertainty and conflict for the Catholic world (1130-1138). Innocent II, despite his initial election being supported by fewer cardinals, quickly gained the crucial endorsement of influential figures and monarchies across Europe. Key among his supporters was Bernard of Clairvaux, a highly respected abbot and spiritual leader, whose eloquent advocacy and powerful arguments convinced many, including most of the European kingdoms and prominent ecclesiastical figures, to acknowledge Innocent as the rightful Pope. Bernard's tireless travels and persuasive rhetoric were instrumental in solidifying Innocent II's position in France, England, and the German Empire.

Strategic Alliances and Imperial Coronation

To overcome the challenge posed by Anacletus II, who maintained control over Rome for much of the schism due to strong local support from the Pierleoni family, Innocent II forged a critical alliance with King Lothair III of Germany. This understanding proved mutually beneficial: Lothair offered military support to Innocent, embarking on two campaigns into Italy (1132-1133 and 1136-1137) to reinstate the Pope in Rome and suppress Anacletus's influence. In return, Innocent II conferred upon Lothair the esteemed title of Holy Roman Emperor. The imperial coronation took place in Rome at the Lateran Basilica on June 4, 1133, following Lothair's initial military expedition, a ceremony that reinforced the traditional interdependency between the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire.

The Second Lateran Council and the End of the Schism

The schism finally drew to a close with the death of Anacletus II in January 1138. While a successor, Victor IV, was briefly elected by Anacletus's remaining supporters, he was quickly persuaded by Bernard of Clairvaux to abdicate, paving the way for the Church's reunification under Innocent II.

To formally conclude the schism, restore ecclesiastical order, and reaffirm his authority, Innocent II convoked and presided over the Second Lateran Council in April 1139. Regarded as the Tenth Ecumenical Council of the Catholic Church, it gathered approximately a thousand bishops and abbots and played a pivotal role in solidifying church doctrine and discipline after the turmoil. Key outcomes and decrees of the Council included:

The Second Lateran Council effectively healed the wounds of the schism and established Innocent II's uncontested legitimacy, marking a significant moment in the consolidation of papal authority in the High Middle Ages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Innocent II

Who was Pope Innocent II before his papacy?
Pope Innocent II was born Gregorio Papareschi, a member of a noble Roman family. He served as a cardinal deacon before his election, indicating his experience within the papal administration.
Why was Innocent II's election controversial?
His election in 1130 was controversial due to a double election. A minority faction of cardinals elected him swiftly, while a larger group elected Pietro Pierleoni (Anacletus II), leading to an eight-year schism.
Who were Innocent II's key supporters during the schism?
His most influential supporter was Bernard of Clairvaux, whose persuasive arguments swayed many European monarchs and church leaders. King Lothair III of Germany also provided crucial military backing.
What was the significance of Lothair III's coronation by Innocent II?
In 1133, Innocent II crowned Lothair III as Holy Roman Emperor in Rome. This act solidified a vital political and military alliance against Anacletus II and reaffirmed the traditional relationship between the papacy and the imperial power.
What was the purpose of the Second Lateran Council?
Held in 1139, the Second Lateran Council aimed to formally end the papal schism, nullify the acts of Anacletus II, reestablish ecclesiastical discipline, and address various moral and doctrinal issues within the Church.