In 1177 the Pope meets the Emporer
During the 12th Century, one of the most important historical episodes of the time occurred in St Mark's Square. Through the mediation of the Most Serene Republic of Venice, Emporer Barbarossa and Pope Alessandro III agreed to meet to find a solution to the long and devastating conflict between Imperial and Papal powers. The meeting happened in the outer porches of the church of St Mark's. Pictures, produced by a printer in the 14th Century, celebrate this historic moment. The Republic, which duirng the conflict had tried to maintain a neutral stance, derived much prestige from this event. It had, in fact, been chosen as referee in a very delicate situation involving two of the biggest powers in the Medieval world.