The Policy of Pope Innocent III on Monasteries in the Latin Empire of Constantinople

Abstract

In this article the policy of Pope Innocent III on monasteries in the Byzantine territories, occupied by the Latins after the fourth crusade (1204), is examined. The “constitutional” documents relating to church property are discussed as a basis for Innocent's pragmatic attitude and the development of a policy. From the Pope's letters it becomes evident that the pontiff distinguished between 5 categories of ‘existing’ monasteries (imperial, royal, patriarchal, episcopal and the ones in Athos), while Western orders (especially military ones) are introduced in the Byzantine territory. Finally, Innocent's reaction to the serious problem of lay usurpation is discussed.