The Papal States

The Papal States were a series of territories in central Italy that were under the direct control of the Pope from the 8th century until the 19th century. They played a crucial role in the politics and religion of Italy and Europe, serving as a sovereign entity where the Pope exercised both spiritual and temporal power. The territories included cities like Rome and Bologna. The Papal States were officially dissolved in 1870 when Italy unified; Rome became the capital of Italy, but the Vatican City remained as the Pope's independent jurisdiction. The legacy of the Papal States continues to influence Catholicism and Italian history.