How did Azzo VII return the Este family to power in Ferrara in 1240?

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Azzo VII returned the Este family to power in Ferrara in 1240 by forming an alliance with the Guelf league, which had been established by Pope Gregory IX.1

Prior to this, the city had been held by Salinguerra Torelli, a Ghibelline leader who had successfully resisted earlier attempts by the Este family to reclaim control. In 1240, however, the city surrendered to the Guelf (papal) forces, leading to the removal of Torelli and marking the true beginning of the house of Este's rule in Ferrara.21