Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How did Sylvester II begin the feudalization of the papacy?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Sylvester II
Sylvester II, detail from the ivory vessel used at the consecration of Otto III, 996; in the Domschatzkammer des Aachener Domes, Aachen, Ger.
Pope Sylvester II began the feudalization of the papacy by granting a fief to Count Daiferio of Terracina in exchange for military service. This action was part of his broader efforts to strengthen the papacy and increase its authority, which also included granting abbeys the right to elect their own abbots and freeing them from external control by bishops and nobles.1