THE
HISTORY OF THE POPES,
FROM THE CLOSE OF THE MIDDLE AGES.
DRAWN
FROM THE SECRET A~CHIVES OF THE VATICAN AND OTHER
ORIGINAL SOURCES.
FROM THE GERMAN OF
DR. LUDWIG PASTOR,
PROFESSOR OF HISTORY IN THE UNIVERSITY OF INNSBRUCK.
EDITED BY
FREDERICK IGNATIUS ANTROBUS.
OF THE ORATORY.
SEVENTH EDITION.
VOLUME II.
LONDON
ROUTLEDGE & KEGAN PAUL LTD
BROADWAY HOUSE: 6&-74 CARTER LANE,: E.C.~.
ST. LOUIS, MO.: B. HERDER ' BOOK CO.
15 & 17 SOUTH BROADWAY.
1 949
HISTORY OF THE POPES.
VOL. lL
CONTENTS
OF VOL.
II. .
PAGE·
vii-xxx
Table of Contents ...
List of Documents in Appendix
Election of Nicholas V. {r447)
XXXl-XXXll
3-26
First Years ofi1is Reign ...
27-73
The Jubilee of 1450.-Cardinal Cusa in Germany
74- 137
The Last Imperial Coronation in Rome.:.
i36-1fo.
Nit:holas V. as Patron of the Renaissance
165-214
Conspiracy of Stefc~no Porcaro . . .
2 r 5-239
..
Advance of the. Turks .and Fall of Constantinopl~ · '240~286
Death of t-; icholas V.
·287-313
....
Election ot Calixtus III.
317-343
The Holy See and the Eastern Question
344-387
The Victory of the Crusaders at Belgrade
389-428
Skanderbeg.-Deaths of Calixtus III. C1,nd Cardinal
Capranica
429-495
Appendix of Unpublished Documents
496-566
lnciex of Names
567-580
•1 .\
VII
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF VOLUME II.
BOOK I.
I.
ELECTION 01' l'Ol'X NlCHOLAS V.,
A.D.
J447-1 455 .
,
r 44 A Condition of Italy and the Church, on the death of
•
Eugenius IV.
.
Apprehension excited by the movements of the King
of Naples.
.
.
T hreatening attitude of the populace and Republican
party in Rome .
.
.
Anxiety felt in regard to the election to the Papal
~~
.
The Cardinals assemble to elect a successor to
Eugenius IV.
.
•
Composition of the Sacred College-character of its
most eminent members
.
.
.
.
Grandeur and depth of character of Cardinal Carvajal
Cardinal de Torquen;iada, champion of the rights of the
Church and Holy See
.
His position as a theologian-founds the confraternity
•
.
•
of the Annunciation .
.
.
Cardinal d'Estouteville-princely splendour in which he
•
.
•
lived .
.
How different nations were represented in the Sacred
College •
.
.
.
.
.
The voting in the Conclave-first results indecisive .
1447 At the third scrutiny C<udinal Parentucelli is unanimously elected .
.
T he election cau~es great rejoicings in Rome and in
the States of the Church .
.
Parentage and early life of Cardinal Parentucelli
•
His difficulties on the death of his father-enters the
service of Cardinal Albergati .
.
.
His relations with the representatives of the Christian
and l;l~aJh~l\ Rc1.1~is.~~.nc~ .,
.,
•.
..
PAGE
3
3
+
5
6
7
7
8
9
10
11
11
11
13
14
15
1.6,
viii
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.I),
1
PAGK
447 His rapid ecclesiastical advancement- becomes Bishop
of Bologna
Breaks up the League of the Electors in Germany
and is crea1ed Car<linal
I mportant position auained l>y him in the Sacred
College
His personal appearance, disposition, and character •
His tem perate habits, love of peace, and benevolence .
His intellectual attainments and his love of books and
buildings .
•
The Ji1erary treasures acquired by him in his travels .
His efforts to collect the writings of the Fathers,
especially those of St. Augustine
.
His ardent d<'sire to restore order, and to use no other
weapon than the Cross
In promoting art and science his first object was the
welfare of the Church
•
•
•
17
18
18
IQ
20
21
22
2:
25
2 (•
II.
?IRST YEARS OP' THE REIGN OP' POPE NICHOLAS V.
State of political and ecclesiastical affairs on the
accession of Nicholas V. .
•
.
.
Misery and devastation in the States of the Church •
Revival of the hopes of the adherents of the antiPope (Felix V.)
•
Effect produced by the prudent and conciliatory action
of the Pope
.
.
.
•
King Alfonso and Frederick III. send ambassadors to
the coronation .
•
.
•
Ceremony of the coronation-the Pope renews his
promises to Frederick III. .
•
• · .
•
Submission of Poland to the Holy See--concessions
made to King Casimir
•
Embassy of the Florentine Republic-their reception
by Nicholas V. .
.
•
Agreem ent with the King of Naples-he sends ambassadors to Rome •
.
.
•
D ifficulties which reunion encountered in Germany and
France
.
.
.
.
.
.
The Schismatic Councils of Bourges and Lyons decide
that Felix should resign
•
•
.
Nicholas V. recognized by the King an<.1 Princes of
Germany-Council ol Basle to be dissolved
•
Opposition and eventual submission of the Universiiy
9f Vienna .
~
'
27
28
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
35
36
37
TAULE OF CONTENTS.
ix
PAGE
Concordat concluded at Vienna between Frederick III.
and the Pope
•
Causes which prevented the. Concordat from producing
•
.
•
its expected results .
.
.
The Concordat ultimately accepted throughout Europe
D issolution of the Basle Synod-submission of the
King of France.
•
1449 Concessions made to the Schismatics and to the antiPope.
Honours conferred upon Felix V.-his retirement and
death
The effect of the Basle Schism was to postpone
•
reform
.
.
Jacob von Jiiterbogk appeals to the Pope to remedy
the abuses in the Church
New laws are not required, but the enforcement of
•
those that exist .
He enumerates the abuses in the Church-extent and
limitation of the Pope's authority
•
The Italians themsdves t he chief obstacle to reform •
Kayserberg's opinion of. the efficacy of Councils for
purposes of reform •
Sterility of the Council of Basle-it served but to revive
•
the Schism
Decline of the belief in the power of ecclesiastical
parliaments.
Influence of ecclesiastical literature in promoting
adherence to the Papal system
Cardinal de Torque111ada's defence of the spiritual and
temporal powers
Exposes the aims and methods of the enemies of the
Holy See .
The work of Rodericus Sancius against the Basle
Schismatics
He attacks the Council theory and stigmatises the socalled neutrals
He lays it down as a principle that the Church will
•
always need reform
If Councils were the proper agents they would need to
be permanent
How reforms should be carried out and the evils of the
Church remedied
St. John Capistran and Piero de! Monte combat the
Council theories
Stringent measures taken by Nicholas V. for the
eradication of heresy
41
42
43
44
49
49
50
51
51
53
54
55
55
SS
s6
57
TABLE OF CONTENTS,
A.D.
PAGK
1449 Reaction in favour of the Papacy co11scquent on the
Basic Schism
Opposit!on which the movement for reunion encounLered in Germany
In spite of the religious awakening in that country the
anti-Papal spirit not entirely subdued.
Peace restored to the Papal States-sdf-government
conceded to the people
..
T he feuda1ories of the Holy See and several cities regain their ancient privileges
The measures adopted for the restoration of peace to
the States of the Church
.
•
•
Policy pursued by the Pope for the maintenance of
peace in his own dominions
•
•
Death of the last of the Visconti-the claimants for Lhe
Duchy of Milan
•
The Duchy in abeyance for three years-the ancient
republic of Milan revived
.
.
.
Francesco Sforza becomes Duke o1 Milan and restores
•
peace to Italy
.
Snb1nission of Bologna-privileges conceded to the
•
.
city by the Pope
Cardinal Bessarion appointed Papal Legate for Bologna
Success of his administration-Bologna's famous
university restored
.
He re-establishes law and justice, and issues an edict
against luxury
•
•
.
Results of the Pope's zeal in the cause of ecclesiastical
and politicaJ order
•
11 is success in the cause of peace-the admiration of
·his contemporaries
58
59
60
61
62
63
63
64
65
66
67
69
70
71
72
73
n r.
THE JUBILEE OF 1450.-CARDINAL CUS,\'S LABOURS DI GERMANY.
1449
The Pope determines to celebrate the termination of the
Schism by a Universal Jubilee .
The Jubilee proclaimed-conditions for gaining the
lndulgc11ce
Joy throughout Christendom- pilgrimage of the nations
to Rome .
The great influx o( strangers-preparations in Rome
•
for their reception
The number and composition of the multitudes which
• · •
• , •
daily arrived in the city
74
75
76
77
78
T ABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.O.
xi
PAG.E
1449 The canonization of St. Bernardine of Siena occurs in
the Jubilee year.
.
His process begun by Eugenius IV. is taken up by
Nicholas V.
The ceremony of the canonization - the Pope pronounces the Saint's panegyric
The outburst of joy which the canonization of St.
Bernardine elicited
•
Description of the Jubilee by dello Mastro, an eyewitness
.
.
.
.
.
The plague reaches Rome-appalling mortality among
the pilgrims
T he people are seized with panic and flee in all directions from the city .
.
The Pope and the Papal Court quit the Eternal City •
r 450 Cessation of the peslilence-the pilgrimages resumed .
The crowds are so great that the streets become impassable •
.
•
Van der Weyden's visit to Rome- its influence on his
work
•
.
.
•
•
Some of the important personages who joined in the
Jubilee
,
The literature to which the Jubilee year gave birth
•
Different treatises wriuen on the subject of Indulgences
Provost Hammerlin denounces ecclesiastical abuses .
A lady of rank is seized at Verona and carried off by
the soldiers
.
.
Fearful accident to the pilgrims on the bridge of St.
Angelo
In the confusion some two hundred persons are
crushed to death
.
The heart-rending scenes in the Church of St. Celso
where the dead were conveyed .
.
The Pope's distress at the terrible event- identification
of the dead
Steps taken to prevent the recurrence of a similar
•
accident .
France and Germany demand the convemion of a
General Council
The Jubilee gifts enable the Pope to advance his
schemes of art and learning
Spiritual effects of the J ubilee--triumph of ecclesiastical restoration
To reform ecclesiastical abuses the Pope sends legates
to various countries .
' Vi 1 Cardinal d'Estoute\·ille endeavours to effect J?eace
between France and England
79
80
81
82
83
84
86
87
88
89
90
91
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
10 1
101
102
103
104
105
lC.
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.O.
t451 Cardinal Cusa undertakes the work of moral reform in
Germany .
·.
Is opposed by those who favoured the principles of the
Council of Ilasle
How to set about the work of ecclesiastical reform
Wherever he went his first visit was to tlie <'.:hurch to
•
implore blessings on his work
H is endeavours to reunite GermaAy to Rome, and to
reform the religious orders .
His labours in the diocese of Salzburg effect the closest
union with the Holy See
.
He appoints apostolic visitors to enforce observance of
the religious vows
.
Their labours in Germany and the reforms effected by
them
•
•
•
Cardinal Cusa reconciles the differences between the
mendicant friars and regular clergy at Bamberg •
He presides at the Provincial Chapter of the Benedic.
•
tines at Wiirzbu rg
He commands the strict observance of the Rule of St.
Benedict •
.
He proceeds to Erfurt, where he undertakes the reform
of the religious houses
•
His reception at Erfun-great multitudes come to hear
him preach
.
Visits the religious houses and monasteries and confers
.
with Johannes Busch.
He enters Magdeburg- takes part in the procession of
the Holy Sacrament •
.
The measures adopted by him for the reform of religi•
•
ous houses
He appoints deputies to carry out the reform of the
Augustinian Order •
.
Extensive powers of the deputies- severe measures
.
adopted LOwards grave offenders .
An edict published against concubinage- Convents
.
.
•
•
visited and reformed •
Cardinal Cusa makes the religious instruction of the
people his special care
His visitation of Minden-measures adopted for the
•
•
better celebration of divine worship
Religious means employed for the extirpation of con•
•
•
cubinage among the clergy
.
St. John Capistran undertakes the reform of the
.
.
.
Minorite Order in South Germany
The veneration with which he was received - the
multitudes who came to hear him
l'AGK
105
106
107
108
rn9
110
1 11
11 2
113
114
11 5
1 16
I 17
118
r 19
12,...
I
20
12 1
12 2
I
23
r 24
124
12 5
126
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.n.
1451
xiii
PAGR
The rule of life which he observed - is accused of vain
ambiLion
By his preaching he wins Lhou ~ands to a belier life,
.
.
and reconciles heretics to Lhe Church .
He founds and reforms Convents, and fills them with
young men won by his preaching from the
Universities
As a result of one sermon nearly 1 20 students seek admission to the religious orders
Cardinal Cusa continues his labours of monastic reform
in Northern Germany
While he admonished and punished ecclesiastics, he.·
did not fail to instruct the laity
He establishes and endows a religious foundation for
33 poor persons
Concludes his labours in Germany-decrees of the
Council of Mayence
The Pope entrusts him wiLh a mission to Burgundy
•
and England
He fai ls in his mission, returns to Germany, and presides at the Council of Cologne .
.
.
.
He addresses the Synod on the measures to be adopted
for reform •
The unity of the Church and Lhe aulhority of the Pope
re-established in Germany
127
c28
129
c30
r 30
c3 r
132
133
134
13;
13 b
13 7
IV.
. THE LAST IMPERIAL CORONATION JN ROllt E, 1452,
1452 Frederick III.'s desire LO be crowned Emperor in Rome
Preparations for the coronation and the King's marri.;ge with Leonora of Portugal
Commands the chief cities of the Empire to furnish
•
•
his escort to Rome
Opposition to his project-symptoms of agitation in
Austria
Magnificent reception accorded to him by the Republic
of Venice .
The Duke of Milan, whom he refused to recognize,
sends an embassy to meet him
The manifestations of welcome with which he was
•
received at Bologna
Royally received by the Florentines-reverence still
felt for the Roman Empire .
•
The King is more concerned about buying jewels than
in receiving ambassadors
1 39
140
143
1 44
KIV
A.D.
1452
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGI'
The Papal legates join the King-he meets his bride
at Siena
The festivities at Siena- description of the future Empress .
Alarm of the Pope at the King's approach- military
precautions
.
T he Pope's dii:trust of the Republican party the cause
of his apprehension
. .
The King approaches Rome-is met by the nobility
and their retainers
.
.
Rapture o.f the King and the German knights on
beholding the Eternal City .
.
The King and the royal escort enter Rome under the
Imperial standard
.
.
The royal procession-the King received with great
pomp by clergy and people
The King's visit to St. Peter's-does hoµiage to the
Pope
•
.
His interview with the Pope-desires to receive the
iron crown of Lombardy
Is crowned King of Lombardy-the Imperial coronation ,__ •
.
.
•
Description of the ceremony at St. Peter's .
Conclusion of the ceremonies-Frederick holds the
Pope's stirrup .
.
.
T he Emperor quits Rome-his journey to Naples
Attempted escape of King Ladislas - the Emperor
returns to Rome
.
•
.
.
.
Armed revolt in Austria threatened-the Emperor departs for Germany .
T he insignificance of the Empire-Frederick's treatment by the Doge of Venice
.
.
.
St. Antoninus' judgment of Frederick-he is compelled
to release King Ladislas
146
r 47
147
r 48
149
1 50
1
51
152
153
t
53
I 54
155
156
1 58
159
160
161
162
BOOK II.
I.
NICHOLAS V. AS PATRON OF THE RENATSSANCE IN LITKRATURE ANO
ART.
The Pope places himself at the head of the movement
for the revi val of learning and art
Rome to be the focus of literature and arl , possessing
imperishable memorials of the Church's greatness
r 65
166
xv
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGR
A.D.
The
fortifications
designed
to
protect
Rome
against
her
1452
enemies
His buildings and libraries intended to manifest the
exaltation of the Holy See .
His great . architectural undertakings-extent of his
design
He commences the restoration of the churches, basilicas,
and palaces of Rome .
I I is solicitude for Lhe public health and for the embellis!iment of the city
Bridges are repaired, fortified or rebuilt, and the city
walls restored
.
The Pope's design for rebuilding the Vatican, St.
Peter's, and the Leonine City
Details of the plan for the construction of the Vatican
and St. Peter's .
The Papal city to be so fortified as to be practically impregnable .
Magnitude of the design for the defence and adornment
of the Eternal City .
•
.
.
.
•
Conception and details of the scheme ascribable to
Nicholas V. alone
His first design was to restore, and not rebuild St.
Peter's
The design abandoned on the advice of Alberti .
•
Reluctance to pull down St. Peter's- dangerous condition of the basi'. ica .
.
.
.
.
The monuments of Pagan Rome despoiled in the work
of Christian restoration
Architectural alterations commenced in the Vatican
1~7
168
169
I
73
174
175
1
79
180
palace.
The additions made by Nicholas V. and subsequent
•
Popes
Artists are attracted to Rome from all parts of the world
Remuneration of some of the most celebrated in the
Pope's service .
The different systems under which the work was
carried out
.
.
Decoration of St. Peter's and tlie Vatican- the labou rs
of Fra Angelico
The almost u11approachable perfection to which he
carried his art .
Relations between him and the Pope- the works he
.
.
executed for Nicholas V. .
His paintings of St. Stephen-his mastery of his ar~
unimpaired by old age
185
186
~s?
xvi
TABLE OF. CONTENTS.
A.D.
1452
PAG11.
In his works the classical ideal is always subordinale to
the Christian spirit
Other painters who received employment and patronage
from Nicholas V.
.
•
He encouraged all those arts which lend magnificence
t o public worship
.
He beautified and fortified the towns, and restored the
public buildings in the Papal States
His passion for the revival of literature-his accession
.hailed by the humanists
He seeks to identify the Holy See with the revival of
classical learning
·
Encouragement and support which literary men received from him.
.
Rome becomes the centre of art and intellectual activity
In his enthusiasm for learning the Pope gives support
to the heathen humanists
Poggio, Filelfo, and Valla among the recipients of his
patronage •
The literature of Greece becomes accessible to Western
Europe
.
The bost of translators employed, and the recompense
a wa,rtled them •
.
.
.
.
•
.
Importance of Greek literature-Rome filled with
books and parchments
•
•
The diffusion of Greek, a counterpoise to what was
corrupt in the Renaissance.
The scandals which arose through the rivalry of the
humanists .
Preferment granted to them to the exclusion of the
clergy
.
The hostility excited by the votaries of the false Renaissance.
•
.
•
•
•
.Maffei insists on the import:i.nce of classical knowledge
to the clergy
•
.
.
.
•
•
Tlie Pope encourages the advancement of ecclesiastical
literature .
.
.
The .labours un dertaken to publish more worthy Lives
of the Saints
•
The Vatican Library intended to preserve the intellectual treasures of Greece and Rome .
•
.
The quest for literary treasures throughout Christendom
Armies of translators and transcribers employed by the
Pope.
.
.
.
.
•
.
.
•
T he Vatican L ibrary was meant to be accessible to the
whole learned world •
'
189
190
I
91
19 2
193
I
94
I 94
195
196
I
97
198
I
99
zoo
201
---.2
203
204
205
206
207
208
208
209
2 IC
xvii
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D.
PAGE
r 452 The private Papal libraries-number of volumes contained in them .
.
Number of MS. volumes in the famous private libraries
of Italy
C-On tents of the·manuscri pt volumes included "in Nicholas
V.'s collections.
.
The importance of the Vatican library even to our own
times
•
ZII
212
213
'14
II.
THE CONSPIRACY OP' STEFANO PORCARO, 14$3•
1453 Porcaro conspires ag:linst the temporal sovereignty and ·
life of the Pope .
The false humanism revive~he ancient estimate of the
murder of tyrants
.
•
.
•
.
.
Porcaro's antecedents-he devotes himself to classical
studies
His desire to establish· in Rome a Republic after the
Florentine pat tern
.
•
Conceals his opinions-appointments conferred on him
by Eugenius IV.
•
Endeavours to provoke an insurrection on the death of
that Pope •
.
•
Nicholas V. forgave him, but he still continued to conspire.
He is exiled to Bologna, but is granted a pension by the
Pope.
Escapes from Bologna in disguise and returns to Rome
Meets his co-conspirators and confers with them in the
city .
Plunder one of their inducements-their plan of operations.
.
Porcaro delays-the Pope is apprised of his design •
The conspirators surprised, but many, including
Porcaro, escape .
His place of concealment discovered, and he is taken
prisoner
H e details the objects of the conspiracy, and the means
of carrying it out
•
.
The Pope and Cardinals to be captured, and put to
death if they resisted .
He is sentenced to death and hanged with a number of
his associates
The calamities which would have befallen the Papacy
if he had succeeded
•
b
216
218
2ZO
.2Z I
222
2 Z2
223
227
228
xvi ii
TA BLE Of CONTENTS.
A.D.
1 453
PAGE
Excitement caused by the conspiracy- divergence of
opinion regarding it •
232
Alarm of the humanists- their condemnation of
Porcaro •
233
Polemical works written against Porcaro and in defence
of the temporal power
.
• 2 34
The Papal rule contrasted with that of the municipal
governors of Italy
.
•
.
.
235
Friendly powers congratulate the Pope on the failure of
the conspiracy .
236
Effect on the Pope of the danger to his life and his
magnificent undertakings
•
2 38
H e becomes suspicious and distrustful on seeing the old
disloyalty revived
2 39
I ll.
ADVANCE OF TH'E TURKS AND FALL OF CONSTANTINOPLE.
1439 Instability or the Greek and Latin Union arranged at
Florence
Schismatical writers labour to excite hostility towards
Rome
Ineffectual altempl to bring about a union with the
RRS:~ian Church.
•
1448 Advance of the Turks-defeat of the Christian army at
Kossowo
•
•
.
.
.
Inactivity of the Greek Court~th e P ope alarmed at
tbe T urkish success
T he H ungarians granted the Jubilee indulgence without
coming to Rome
.
.
•
.
Measures of the Pope for the revival of faith and suppression of heresy in Bosnia
14 5 1 His action against the Turks-material assistance
given to Cyprus .
Ilis suppon of the Greeks conditional on their observing the Union
.
His Brief to the Greeks on the necessity of the
unity of the Church .
.
.
.
.
Points out the dangers of schism and the decadence of
the countries where it prevailed .
•
•
H e remi nds them of their acceptance of the Union, and
their attempts to evade it
.
T he conditions on which he will give his assistance
against the Turks
.
.
.
145 1 The Turks who had menaced Cyprus turn their arms
against a l\fahometan Prince
\
240
24 1
242
242
243
244
z4 5
476
247
248
249
2 50
2 51
25 1.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.O.
xix
PAGE
145 1 The Greeks deeming themselves safe send an insulting
.
.
.
.
.
embassy to Mahomet .
He makes peace with his enemy, and turns his power
against Constantinople
•
•
.
•
•
14 5z He proceeds to fortify the Bosphorus, and declares war
against the Greeks
.
. "-..
•
.
. 2 53
Preparations for the decisive struggle-hopes of Union
with Rome abandoned
•
•
Discussion in Rome on the question of assistance to
the Greeks
.
•
.
.
.
.
. 255
It is urged that in spite of the schism Constantinople
•
.
•
. 256
should be saved
Dangers to be apprehended if the city fell into the
hands of the Turks
•
. 257
The Greek Emperor accepts the conditions laid down
by the Pope
.
.
.
.
.
.
. 258
1 4 52 Cardinal Isidore goes to Constantinople with aid for the
Greeks
258
Solemn function held to celebrate the Union of the
churches .
.
259
The populace and schismatical clergy resist and
denounce the Union .
.
.
. 259
Antagonism to Rome general throughout Byzantine
society
.
. 260
Consequence of this hostility in the then condition of
•
.
.
Greece
.
.
.
.
Genoa aids the Greeks, but help from Ven ice comes
•
.
•
•
. 261
too late
Venetian support half-hearted-assistance afforded by
.
•
.
.
.
the Pope .
Nicholas V. describes the amount of support he
rendered to the Greeks
•
.
.
.
.
14 53 The Papal fleet proceeds to Constantinople-strength
of the opposing forces
.
.
.
•
.
Commencement of the siege-the credit due to Italian
ships and foreign troops •
.
.
.
.
Cowardice of the Greeks-their reliance on prayers
and predictions
.
.
.
.
.
.
The troops inadequate to the defence-courage dis.
.
.
.
.
played by the Emperor
1 +53 (May 29th) Capture of the city-atrocities commilted
by the Turkish troops
.
.
.
.
Outrage to the Christian Faith-last traces of the
Union obliterated
.
Degradation of the Greek Church- flight of the
Christians from the East •
•
• 269
xx
TABLE OF CONT ENTS.
A.O.
PAGE
1453 Terror of Christendom at the downfall of the Byzantine Empire
Consequences of that event on the political system of
Europe
Consternation in Rome on receipt of the news of the
fall of Constantinople .
Further advance of the Turks apprehended-measures
adopted by the Pope
·
He equips a fleet and issues a Bull of Crusade to
•
Christendom
A great portion of the revenues of the Church devoted
to advance the crusade
The enthusiasm which inspired the crusades extinct
14 54 Hungary alone undertakes the war against the infidel .
The commercial interests of the Venetian Republic
prevail over its patriotism .
It enters into negotiations with the Sultan and con.
cludes a treaty with the Porte
Its mercenary action-shameful conditions accepted
by the Republic
/ Helplessness of Genoa-surrender of its Black Sea
possessions
Vacillation of the King of Naples in regard to the
crusade
The Duchy of Milan and Florentine Republic give no
support
In;1ctio11 of the Western Powers-the Pope's summons
unheeded in France
Portugal and Hungary make serious preparations for
the wa r
Discord among the European nations prevented their
union agains t the Turks
270
271
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
286
IV.
NRGOTIATIONS F OR PEACE DI ITALY- THE CRUSADE I N GERMANYSICKNESS A:-10 DEATH OF NICHOLAS V.
Cyprus and Rhodes impl0rc aid against the Turkse~cape
of Cardinal Isidore .
His account of the cruelties of the Turks and extent of
their resources .
1453 The Pope summons the Italian Powers to a peace
congress .
Irreconcilable differences among the States represented
at the congress
287
288
289
291
"-...
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D.
1453 The King of Naples adverse to the re-es~ablishment of
peace
The excessive influence he is supposed to have exercised
over the Pope .
.
.
.
.
.
.
The Pope becomes seriously ill during the negotiations
The peace congress breaks up amid mutual dissatisfaction
.
.
.
.
.
Mission of Fra Simonetto of Camerino to the Duke of
Milan
.
.
.
i 454 He brings about the peace which the congress failed
to accomplish
.
.
.
.
.
The King of Naples indignant at the conditions of the
peace of Lodi .
•
.
.
.
.
Acceptam;e of the conditions of peace by the whole of
Italy
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
r 455 The Pope ratifies the league which is proclaimed
amid general rejoicing
•
.
.
.
.
Frederick lll. summons a Diet to concert measures
against the Turks
•
.
.
.
.
The Diet badly attended-no definite result arrived at .
Disunion in the Holy Roman Empire-the Diet reassembles at Frankfort
.
.
•
.
.
I t is decided to send an army and fieet to aid the
•
.
.
.
.
.
•
Hungarians
The Diet next meets al Vienna--it evades the Turkish
question .
•
.
•
Illness of Nicholas V.-continued anxieties of his
reign
•
Unable to give audiences or take part in the great
feasts of the Church .
•
Revolutionary agitation throughout the States of the
Church
•
•
•
•
Intervention of the Pope between Spoleto and the
Count of Anguillara
•
Commands his subjects to obey the Cardinals pending
•
the election of a new Pope
His illness becomes dangerous-his preparation for
death
•
.
.
.
.
.
.
He justifies on his death-bed before the Cardinals the
acts of his pontificate
Contrasts the state of the Church on his accession
with that in which he is leaving it
His death- tribute of Vespasiano da Bisticci to his
memory
1455 He is buried in St. Peter's-his monument and epitaph
XXl
PAGF.
292
293
294
295
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
307
308
309
309
310
311
312
312
313
xxii
T ABLE OF CONTENTS.
BOOK III.
I.
CALIXTUS
III.
THE
CHAM PION
TURKS,
OF
CHRISTENDOH
AGAINST
A.D.
t
THE
1455-1458.
45 5 Apprehended disturbance in Rome-renewed activity
of the Republicans
.
.
.
.
•
Preparations made for the election of a new Pope
•
The Cardinals assemble in conclave-composition of
.
•
•
•
the Sacred College •
T he proportion in which Italy and other nations were
•
•
.
•
represented
.
.
Specuiation as to the future Pope-chances of Cardinals
.
.
.
•
•
Colonna and Orsini .
Division among the Cardinals-three scrutinies fail to
•
.
give the requisite majority •
Cardinal Bessarion's prospects- his elevation considered certain .
•
.
The decision remains uncertain-impatience of the
populace .
.
.
.
.
.
.
Cardinal Alonso Borja elected-takes the name of
.
Calixtus III.
Prediction of St. Vincent Ferrer concerning him
The ancestry and early life of Calixtus Ill.
•
•
His ecclesiastical and diplomatic career-services
rendered to Alfonso of Naples •
•
.
.
His moral and intellectual qualification-dissatisfaction
at his election •
.
.
.
•
•
•
The Pope's character described by his contem poraries.
Fear of the Italians that he will unduly favour his own
•
.
.
•
•
countrymen
.
.
Simplicity of his demeanour-contrast between him
and Nicholas V.
•
•
His attitude of indifference towards the Renaissance
•
•
.
•
·
•
movement
.
The humanists accuse him of having dispersed the
•
.
.
•
\
Vatican library .
.
;
Reasons which prove that the accusation is a calumny
Why Calixtus lll. gave such little attention to the
•
•
•
.
•
Renaissance
.
•
Ceremony of the Pope's coronation at St. Peter's
Disturbances in Rome-the Colonna and the Orsini
•
•
again in conflict
.
A truce is established between the contending parties •
PAGE
317
318
319
3zo
3z1
3z 2
32 3
3z4
3z5
3z6
3z7
3za
3z9
330
331
33z
333
334
335
336
337
338
330
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.P.
xxiii
PAGE
145 5 The Christian powers send ambassadors to pay homage
to the Pope
.
.
.
.
.
.
His determination to reconquer Constantinople-St.
Antoninus urges on the crusade .
Doubtful intentions of the Venetians concerning the
Turkish war
.
•
.
.
i-- •
•
Profession of obedience to the Pope of the German
nation
.
•
T he Pope commends the Emperor Frederick for his intention of joining in the war
340
341
341
343
343
II.
THE HOLY SEE AND THE EASTERN QUESTION,
Consequences of the fall of Constantinople-perilous
position of the adjacent countries
.
Indifference shown by the European P owers to the
welfare of Christendom
Danger to Western civilization- the Pope gives a
powerful impulse to the crusade
He binds himself by a solemn vow to sacrifice everything to repel lslamism
Enthusiasm with which he enters on the contest-his
deadly hatred of the Turks .
His threefold purpose, to unite Christendom, succour
Hungary, and equip a fleet
1455 He renews the indulgence of Nicholas V., and fixes a
day for the departure of the expedition
He despatches legates to various countries to restore
the unity of Christian princes
.
•
.
•
The ceremony of conferring the Cross performed at
St. Peter's
•
He sends bishops, prelates, or monks to collect material
aid for the expedition.
Preachers of the crusade and tithe collectors appointed
for the various nations
Some of the Religious Orders devote themselves to
preaching the crusade
Precautions taken to prevent the funds subscribed
•
•
being diverted from their purpose
.
The Pope devotes all his resources to the crusade, even
Papal jewels and Church property
.
.
.
Suspension of the literary and architectural works
undertaken by Nicholas V.
•
All his energy and att~ntion are absorbed in prepara•
tions for the war
344
345
345
346
347
348
349
349
350
35 r
3 52
353
354
355
356
357
XXIV
A.D.
TABLE OF CONTENTS,
PAGI!
1455 His plan for the recovery of Constantinople-his reliance on Philip of Burgundy
.
.
.
• 358
Endeavours to induce the King of Naples to join in the
expedition .
•
.
•
•
.
•
• 359
1456 The peace of Central Italy disturbed-Piccinino advances towards Siena .
•
• 360
He is attacked by the Papal and Milanese forces and
obliged to retreat
.
.
•
.
•
• 36 1
Duplicity of the King of Naples-his stipulations in
favour of Piccinino •
.
.
.
.
. 362
Piccinino harasses the Sienese, who seek the intervention of King A lfonso .
.
.
.
.
. 363
T erms of peace arranged between the Sienese and the
brigand Piccinino
.
.
.
.
. 364
The Papal fleet destined to harass the Turks attacks
the ships. of Christian nations
•
•
.
. 365
Deep indignatior. of the Pope-Cardinal Scarampo appointed admiral
.
.
.
.
.
. 366
Construction and equipment of a P apal fleet in progress on the Tiber
•
.
•
•
.
. 367
Festivities held in honour of Scarampo's appointmentextent of his authority
•
.
. 368
Administrative arrangements connected with the construction of the fleet .
.
•
• 369
1456 The new Papal fleet sets sail with five thousand troops
on board •
•
.
. 371
The admiral goes to Naples to take over the ships promised by Alfonso
.
.
•
.
.
• 372
The King's treachery- the Pope appeals to the admiral
to start without delay
.
• 373
T he Cardinal's indecision-the Pope urges him to proceed to the .iEgean Sea
•
.
.
.
. 374
t457 New ships built in Rome- the Papal fleet in Greek
waters
•
•
. 375
Indifference shown by the Western Powers to the
critical condition of the East
.
. 376
Apathy of Frederick III.- Charles Vll.'s opposition to
the crusade
.
.
.
.
. 377
The Pope urgently appeals to his legate to obtain assist~ ce from France
.
.
.
.
.
• 379
Charles Vll.'s agreement with the Pope and its violation .
.
.
.
The Universities of Paris and Toulouse beg the King
to resist the collection of the tithes
.
.
.
The Duke of Burgundy retains the money collected for
the crusade
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D.
xxv
PAGE
1457 Inaction of the Kings of Denmark and Norway-the
King of Portugal fails to keep his promise
383
The Papal Nuncio recalled from Portugal-desertion of
• '-3"84
the Pope by the European Powers
The Duke of Milan and the Republic of Venice disregard the entreaties of the Pope
38 5
Florence refuses to co-operate-overwhelming difficulties of the Pope
•
• 386
He sends ambassadors throughout Europe to collect
money and troops for the war
387
His indomitable resolution- artistic treasures and jewels
•
•
•
• 387
converted into money
III.
THE VICTORY OF THE CRUSADERS AT BELGRADE.
The measures of the Sultan- extends his dominions in
Servia, and prepares to attack Hungary
H.is military preparations-he proceeds with 150,000
men to attack Belgrade
Belgrade invested-Hunyadi and St. John Capistran
.
bring succour to the city
Carvajal encourages the Hungarians-treachery of
King Ladislas and his barons · •
Hunyadi raises an army at his own expense-composition of the crusading army
•
•
Important documents connected with the relief of Belgrade still undiscovered
.
.
.
.
.
Measures of Hunyadi-he breaks the Turkish line and
gains a complete victory
The rival forces concentrated for a decisive battleprogress of the engagement
.
.
Critical condition of the crusaders-heroism of Hunyadi
- total defeat of the Turks
•
.
Importance of the vicfory-the chief merit due to
Calixtus III.
•
His readiness to sacrifice himself and all he had in the
defence of Christendom
•
Commands prayers to be said throughout the world to
•
avert the invasion
.
.
Joy of the Christian world over the triumph at Belgrade
Great rejoicings in Rome, Italy, and Venice
How the aged l'ontiff received the tidings of tlie
victory
•
•
389
390
391
392
393
n394
395
396
397
398
399
400
401
402
403
XXVI
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D .
r 456 Condemns the inaction of his admiral-hopes Christen•
•
dom will now assist him
St. John Capistran and Hunyadi on the defeat of the
Turks
They appeal for more troops to complete the discomfiture of the infidel /
.
.
.
.
.
Constantinople to be recaptured and the Holy Land
.•
•
.
•
freed from Islamism .
Pestilence among the Christian army-death of Hunyadi and St. John Capistran
•
.
.
.
The Pope appeals to the Powers to follow up the
•
victory
.
The Western Powers deaf to his entreaties-he appeals
to the princes of the East .
.
.
The Papal exhortation warmly received by the common
•
•
.
•
people
Enthusiastic support of the war in Upper Germanythe Nuremberg crusaders .
•
•
Their equipment and departure to join the army at
Belgrade •
.
.
They are joined by contingents from England, France,
•
.
and other countries
Altercation between Ladislas, Hunyadi, and Count
Ulrich before Belgrade
.
Disastrous consequences thereof-the crusading army
•
returns home
.
The German prelates complain of the Holy See and
.
.
.
demand reform •
1456 Anti-papal movement in Germany-Synods of Frankfort-on-Main
.
.
Resistance to the collection of tithes-an anti-papal
•
league established
.
Hostility to the Emperor-the Pope again appeals to
•
•
him to assist the crusade
r 457 The Diet of Frankfort reassembles-statement of grievances against Rome .
.
The Pope rejects the overtures for a treaty with the
Archbishop of Mayence
•
.
He replies to the accusations of the agitators, and condemns their disloyalty.
.
.
Censures the Archbishop-the leader of the anti-papal
movement .
•
.
.
T he Pope and-Cardinal Piccolomini refute the charges
against the Holy See .
14 58 Collapse of the movement-duplicity of the King of
Naples
PAGE
404
405
405
406
406
407
408
409
410
4r 1
412
41 2
4r3
4 13
4 r4
4I5
416
41 /
418
419
420
4 21
422
T ABLE OF CONT ENTS.
A.O.
xxvii
PAGF.
r 4 58 Requests the Pope to band over to him certain territories of the Church .
.
H is attempts to frustrate the Pope's efforts for carrying
on the crusade .
•
•
.
.
•
His policy helps to prevent the union of Christendom
against the Turks
•
•
.
•
•
Splendour of the reception accorded in Rome to
Lucrezia di Algano •
.
•
The Pope's threat to prevent Alfonso's illegitimate son
from succeeding to the throne .
.
•
The right of succession according to the law of Lombardy
•
4 23
4 24
4 25
4 26
427
428
IV.
<;KA?\DERBEG.-DEATHS OF CALIXTUS III. AND CARDINAL CAPRAN!CA.
Skanderbeg's military renown-the romantic fictions
connected with his life
•
1455 His achievements against the Turks-the Albanians
revolt against him
•
ls defeated by the l\foslems, and compelled to retreat
to the mountains
•
H is appeal for help-the Pope grants him pecuniary
assistance •
•
•
He defeats the Turks, and enters his capital in triumph
His nephew goes over to the Turks with a large force
. of the Albanian army .
•
1457 Skanderbeg overthrows the Turkish army at Tomornitza
The papal fleet ordered to assist him-his appeal to the
Western Powers .
.
.
.
.
•
•
Skanderbeg promoted Captain-General for the Turkish
war by the Pope
The Pope's solicitude for the protection of the Oriental
Christians .
Tries to save the Genoese Colonies on the Black Sea
from the Turks •
.
•
•
His efforts on behalf of the Gcnoese-tbc favours con··
fer red upon them
14 57 Defeat of the Turks by the papal fleet-capture of 25 of
their ships •
.
.
The Pope's energy in re-enforcing his fleet-his determination to maintain it
•
.
•
•
•
Indifference shown by Portugal and Burgundy in the
defence of Christendom
Owing to dissensions among the Powers the victories
over the Turks are not followed up
•
429
4 30
431
43 I
432
432
433
434 ·
435
43 5
436
43 7
438
439
439
440
xxviii
T ABLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D.
PAGR
1458 Death of the King of Hungary-George Podiebrad
elected King of Bohemia
King George renounces the Hussit~ heresy-promises
to support the war against the Turks .
Swears fidelity to the Roman Church, and undertakes
to oppose heretical doctrines
The Pope hopeful that the Bohemian heretics will return
to the Church
·
Opposition encountered by Calixtus III. in his prosecu•
tion of the crusade
To ensure united action he summons a congress of the
Powers to Rome
14 58 The congress assembles-its deliberations end without
•
•
result
The nepotism of Calixtus III.-how he enriched his
Spanish relations
Characteristics of the Borgias-evil consequences of
their elevation .
.
Great abilities of Rodrigo Borgia-favours conferred
•
.
.
upon him •
Luis Juan and Rodrigo, the Pope's nephews, created
Cardinals .
Rodrigo's immoral character not manifested in the lifetime of Calixtus .
Futile attempts by recent writers to rehabilitate his
•
.
.
•
•
.
•
character •
The Portuguese Infante James made Cardinal-his exemplary life
. · .
The Pope's further creation of Cardinals- opposition
of the Sacred College.
Six Cardinals, including lEneas Sylvius Piccolomini,
are created
Cardinals Luis and Rodrigo Borgia appointed to lucra.
.
tive offices
Rodrigo becomes Vice-Chancellor-advancement of
Don Pedro Luis .
.
.
•
Protest of Capranica - intimacy between the Borgia
and the Colonna.
.
.
Don Pedro Luis becomes Prefect of the Eternal City .
Insolent man~ers of the Pope's nephews-influx, of
Spaniards to Rome
Many quit the papal service in consequence of the
favour shown to the Catalans
The fortress of St. Angelo surrendered to the Borgia
-fears of disturbance in Rome •
J
.
.
.
.
441
442
443
444
445
446
44 7
447
448
449
450
45 r
4 52
4 54
455
458
45 9
460
46 r
462
463
464
465
T.\BLE OF CONTENTS.
A.D.
1458 Lawlessness in Rome under the Borgia-the plague revisits 1he city
Death of King Alfonso of Naples- rival claimants to
.
•
•
the throne •
The Pope bestows rich benefices on his nephews- his
intentions regarding Don Pedro .
He issues a Bull claiming Sicily as a lapsed fief of the
Holy See .
•
He ignor"!s Don Ferrante, and orders a hostile demonstration against Naples
Claims advanced by Calixtus III. as to the disposal of
Naples
.
.
•
•
•
Don Ferrante appeals against the Bull-the Duke of
Milan declares in his favour
The Pope becomes seriously ill-maltreatment of the
•
Catalans in Rome
On his death-bed the Pope confers new favours on
Don Pedro.
His intention to create new Cardinals- opposition of
the Sacred College
.
•
•
Excitement in Rome and the Papal States - precautionary measures
•
Don Pedro afraid- surrenders the fortresses in his posses•
sion lo the Cardinals .
A<'r.ou nt of his flight-his military escort refuses to
•
•
accompany him .
Cardinal Rod rigo returns to Rome- his palace plun.
.
•
•
.
dered by the populace.
1458 .(6 August) Death of Calixtus III.-his character, apart
from his nepotism, worthy of praise
.
.
Ho~tility to the Borgia and their sympathizers-flight
of the Catalans .
.
.
.
Piccinino re- enters the Papal States-alleged connivance of King Alfonso
·
Negotiations regarding t he election of a successor to
Calixtus Ill.
•
.
.
Determination to elect an Italian- Capranica in favour
with all parties .
•
•
':apranica'~ early life-his relations with Cesarini
His remarkable learning and virtue-his elevation to
the pu rple .
H is exclusion from the Co11clave which assembled on
the death of Martin V.
Plunder of his palace and dispersion of his library by
•
the Or:;ini .
xxix
PAGK
466
467
468
469
470
471
47 z
473
474
474
475
476
477
478
479
480
481
481
482
483
484
485
486
xxx
TABLE .OF CONT ENTS.
A.D.
1
PAGE
458 He is denied the dignity of Cardinal-appeals to the
.
.
.
.
•
Council of Basle .
Becomes reconciled with Eugenius IV.-his labours for
reform and Union with the Greeks
The offices conferred on him by Nicholas V.-his
interest in the Turkish question •
•
Courage displayed by him during the plague- opposes
the promotion of Don Pedro ·
His life the ideal of what that of a Cardinal ought t.o be
The administration of his household-his practice of
mortification
How he reconciled enemies- he founds a college for
poor students
(r9 August) Capranica's death-the Milanese ambassador's last interview with him .
.
Is buried amid general mourning near the grave of St.
Catherine of Siena
.
•
•
.
.
·
F.~cction of Cardinal JEneas Sylviu~ Piccolomini (Pius
· ll.) as successor to Calixtus HI. •
•
•
.
I
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
494
495
495
xxxi
LIST OF UNPUBLISHED DOCUMENTS.
I. Nicholas V. to Cardinal Bessarion
• co
II.
,,
to the Knights of St. John
UL Three Bulls on behalf of the KnighLs of St. John
lV. V. Amidano to Duke of Milan ...
V. Giov. lnghirami to Giov. de' Medici
VI. Nicbolas V. to Cardinal Cusa ...
VIL
,,
and Cyprus ...
VIII.
,,
to Cardinal Cusa ...
IX.
,,
to Cardinal d'Estouteville ...
X.
,,
to Cardinal Cusa
XL
"
"
XII. Speeches of Stefano Porcaro
Xlll. G. de Rapallo to P. de Campofregoso
XIV. Depositions of Stefano Porcaro ...
XV. B. de Lagazara to Siena •••
XVI. Cardinal Calandrini to Lucca
XVII. Nicholas V. to Thomas of Lesina
XVIIJ. N. Soderinus to Florence
XIX. L. de' Benvoglienti to Siena
XX. A. da Pistoja to Duke of Milan ...
XXI. Cardinal d'Estouteville to Duke of l\i ilan
XXIL Nicholas V. and the Minorites ...
XXIll. A. de Aliprandis to Duke of Milan
XXIV. F . Contarini to Venice .•.
XXV. 1.Eneas Sylvius to Nicholas V...•
XX'.'I. N. of Pontremoli to Duke of Milan
XXVII. F . Contarini to Venice
XXVIII.
. "
"
500
500
502
503
505
505
506
506
507
508
5ro
517
518
520
521
52 1
522
52 3
524
525
526
528
52 9
532
53 2
xxxu
LIST OF UNPUBLISHED DOCUMENTS:
PJ.Ga
XXIX.
XXX.
XXXI.
XXXII.
XXXlll.
XXXl V.
XXXV.
XXXVT.
XXXVlI.
:\XXVlII..
XXXIX.
XL.
XU.
XLll.
B. Visconti and N. Pontremoli to Duke of Mila n
N. Pontremoli to Duke oi Milan
B. Visconti a nd N. Pontremoli to Duke of Milan
Calixtus III. to Bologna ...
J. Calcaterra to Duke of Milan...
Calixtus III. to Cologne ...
G. of Castiglione to Duke of Milan
Cardinal Scarampo to L. de Gonzaga
Calixtus JU. creates Rodrigo Borgia Cardi nal ...
,,
and Archbishop of Tarragona
,,
to General of Augustinian.;;
,,
to Jacopo Perpinya
Doge ofVenice to Duke of Milan
N. Severinus to Siena •••
J. Calcaterra to Duke of Milan •••
Calixlus llI. to Cardinal Alajfi ...
Cardinal Scarampo to 0. Gaetani
B. Ghilinus to Duke of Milan ...
Ca rdinal Rodrigo l3orgia to L. de Gonzaga
Calixtus III. LO Berne •••
,,
gifts to Cardinals de Borgia
J. A. della Torre to Duke of Milan
A. da Pistoja
,,
XLI II.
XLIV.
XLV.
XLVI.
X LVII.
XL VII I.
XLJX.
L.
Ll.
LI!.
"
LllI. 0. de Carretto
UV. A. da Pistoja
LV. 0. de Carretto
LVI.
"
,,
,,
,,
533
534
536
537
538
538
539
540
541
544
545
546
547
547
548
550
55;
552
553
554
555
556
557
55Si
561
563
564
565