Origins & Early Life

Pope Gregory IX (Latin: Gregorius IX; born Ugolino dei Conti; 1145 – 22 August 1241) was head of the Catholic Church and the ruler of the Papal States from 19 March 1227 until his death in 1241. He is known for issuing the Decretales and instituting the Papal Inquisition, in response to the failures of the episcopal inquisitions established during the time of Pope Lucius III, by means of the papal bull Ad abolendam, issued in 1184. He worked initially as a cardinal, and after becoming the successor of Honorius III, he fully inherited the traditions of Gregory VII and of his own cousin Innocent III, and zealously continued their policy of papal supremacy. Ugolino (Hugh) was born in Anagni near Rome.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

The date of his birth varies in sources between c. 1145 and 1170. He is said to have been "in his nineties, if not nearly one hundred years old" at his death. He received his education at the Universities of Paris and Bologna. He was created Cardinal-Deacon of the church of Sant'Eustachio by his cousin Innocent III in December 1198.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1206, he was promoted to the rank of Cardinal Bishop of Ostia e Velletri. He became Dean of the Sacred College of Cardinals...

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