Pope Lucius III

Reign: 1181 – 1185
Life: 1110–1185

His papacy was marked by conflicts with Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I, his exile from Rome, and the initial preparations for the Third Crusade. He was appointed cardinal by Pope Innocent II and served as papal legate in France, Sicily, and other regions. During his papacy, Lucius III faced disputes with the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I over the territories of the late Countess Matilda of Tuscany. In 1185, preparations began for the Third Crusade, but Lucius III died in Verona before they were completed.

During Pope Lucius III's reign, Henry II of England ruled England, Alfonso VIII of Castile ruled Spain, and Afonso I of Portugal ruled Portugal.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Absolute Monarchs: A History of the Papacy by John Julius Norwich

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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From the library

Go deeper on Pope Lucius III

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