Walk to Canossa

Unverified
Date January 28, 1077
Type World
Author smithsheep
Location Canossa, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Categories
Political & Governance Religion & Philosophy

Event Details

The Walk to Canossa concluded on January 28, 1077, when Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV was admitted to the Castle of Canossa after waiting for three days in the snow to seek absolution from Pope Gregory VII.

Context: The event was a pivotal moment in the Investiture Controversy, a conflict between church and state over the appointment of bishops. Henry's penance allowed him to have his excommunication lifted, though the conflict continued for years.