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Sciarra Colonna was a prominent Italian nobleman and a member of the powerful Colonna family of Rome. The Colonna family, of ancient Roman origin, gained significant influence through papal favor, providing cardinals and senators by the 13th century. Sciarra Colonna himself is noted for his role in a significant historical event: he led the armed attack on Pope Boniface VIII in Anagni in 1303. This action was part of the intense feuds between Roman baronial dynasties, particularly the Colonna and their rivals, the Caetani and Orsini families. Following Boniface VIII's death, the Colonna family regained their lands and influence, remaining a potent force in Roman politics for centuries.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Colonna Family
  2. Corsini Family

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