In this article, the topic of Pope Stephen VII will be addressed exhaustively, analyzing its main aspects and addressing the different perspectives that exist on the matter. Pope Stephen VII is a topic that has generated great interest both in the academic community and in society in general, due to its relevance and impact in various areas. Throughout these pages, Pope Stephen VII will be examined from different approaches, with the aim of providing a comprehensive and enriching vision on this topic. By reviewing various sources and presenting specific cases, the reader will be provided with a broad understanding of Pope Stephen VII and its implications today.
Stephen VII | |
---|---|
Bishop of Rome | |
Church | Catholic Church |
Papacy began | February 929 |
Papacy ended | 15 March 931 |
Predecessor | Leo VI |
Successor | John XI |
Personal details | |
Born | Stephanus de Gabrielli |
Died | c. 15 March 931 Rome, Papal States |
Previous post(s) | Cardinal-Priest of Sant'Anastasia (928-929) |
Other popes named Stephen |
Pope Stephen VII (Latin: Stephanus VII; died 15 March 931) was the bishop of Rome and nominal ruler of the Papal States from February 929 to his death in 931. A candidate of the infamous Marozia, his pontificate occurred during the period known as the Saeculum obscurum.
Stephen was a Roman by birth, the son of Germanic (Goth) Theodemundus/Theudemund . He was the cardinal-priest of St Anastasia in Rome. He was probably handpicked by Marozia, the true ruler of Rome during the Saeculum obscurum, to become pope as a stop-gap measure until her own son John was ready to assume the role.
Very little is known about Stephen's pontificate. During his two years as pope, Stephen confirmed the privileges of a few religious houses in France and Italy. As a reward for helping free Stephen from the oppression of Hugh of Arles, Stephen granted Cante di Gabrielli the position of papal governor of Gubbio, and control over a number of key fortresses. Stephen was also noted for the severity with which he treated clergy who strayed in their morals. He was also, apparently, according to a hostile Greek source from the twelfth century, the first pope who went around clean shaved whilst pope.
Stephen died around 15 March 931, and was succeeded by Marozia's son John XI.