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How did Pope Martin V try to restore papal control over central Italy?

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Side-by-side maps of central Italy showing the changing boundaries of the Papal States. The left map highlights the Papal States after the Treaty of Vienna in 1815 in green, showing their greatest extent. The right map shows the Papal States' reduced territory just before absorption into Italy, with orange marking areas annexed in 1860 and yellow showing the final area annexed in 1870, centered ar — Papal States The Papal States in 1815 (left) and at their annexation by Italy in 1870.

To restore papal control over central Italy, Pope Martin V primarily utilized diplomatic strategies rather than force, as he found it necessary to establish his authority in church-held lands and cities through negotiation.1

Upon his return to Rome in 1420, he faced significant challenges from local powers, most notably the ambitious Italian soldier Braccio da Montone. Martin initially attempted to manage this threat by appointing Braccio as the vicar of the papal territories of Perugia and Umbria.1

Following Braccio’s defeat at the Battle of Aquila in 1424, Martin was able to make further progress in consolidating his influence. He strengthened his position by granting fiefs in southern Italy to his own influential family, the Colonnas. This move not only increased the power of his family but also enriched them with vast estates within the papal territory, effectively securing his control over the region.1