Publications
Foreword
The study examines the ethical and practical dilemmas surrounding heritage conservation, particularly focusing on whether restoration should aim to recreate original states or preserve current iterations. It highlights the tension between intergenerational transmission and structural integrity, as illustrated by the Venice Charter (1964), which advocates for preserving assets in their current state. The research explores this through case studies like Avignon Bridge and Sénanque Abbey, where interventions were necessary to prevent collapse but raised questions about narrative selection and visual dissonance. It also critiques the anti-interventionist approach, warning of risks such as museification or 'Disneyfication' of heritage. The study uses historical examples and charters (e.g., Athens Charter 1931, Krakow Charter 2000) to frame its analysis.
A spatial decision support system for enhancing resilience to floods: bridging resilience modelling and geovisualization techniques
A spatial decision support system integrating geovisualization techniques and resilience assessment methods effectively identifies local resilience potential to floods, offering a visual tool for stakeholders. The study demonstrates that combining GIS data processing with three resilience indicators can enhance urban resilience in Avignon, France, by clarifying the concept through interactive mapping and data visualization. This approach facilitates stakeholder engagement and provides easier access to resilience analysis, bridging the gap between theoretical modeling and practical application.
Magánmitológiák Nagy József és Romeo Castellucci előadásaiban
Private mythologies take center stage in the avant-garde performances staged within Avignon's papal palace, revealing how visual artists József Nagy and Romeo Castellucci subvert traditional theater by prioritizing imagery over narrative. Their works, analyzed in this study, transcend representation to construct autonomous worlds where visual dominance erases textual expression. By comparing their approaches—rooted in visual art rather than conventional theater—researchers uncover a shared emphasis on myth-making, though through distinct stylistic and conceptual frameworks. The analysis highlights how these performances challenge audience expectations by dissolving the boundary between performance and world-building, offering a radical redefinition of theatrical experience within one of Europe's most historically significant sites.
The Remains of the Bridges
Bridges, often seen as symbols of progress and engineering prowess, leave enduring traces in the spatial identity and social fabric of cities. This study reveals that bridges are not merely structures but co-creators of urban landscapes, reflecting the ambitions, cultures, and historical narratives of their inhabitants. By analyzing archival iconographic materials and contemporary satellite images from sites like Avignon, Carcassonne, Paris, Prague, Mostar, Narni, and Kłodzko, researchers uncover how these bridges shape the physiognomic and social realm of cities. The findings highlight the interconnectedness of material and human spheres, forming a complex system that influences urban development and identity.
Processions and Populations
Medieval and Renaissance popes strategically orchestrated processions and urban theatricals to reinforce the Church's spiritual authority and temporal rule, mirroring Rome's imperial rulers' use of public spectacles. These ceremonies, including translations of icons, funerals, and public games, were carefully choreographed to manifest papal power and control over contested sites. The most significant procession was the papal possesso, a route that evolved into a key east-west passage in Rome, often modified during political tensions but maintained even when popes resided in Avignon. Upon returning to Rome in the mid-15th century, the possesso became a symbol of the intertwined rebirth of city and Church, with its route reversed from St. Peter's to the Lateran. Over time, the ceremony grew more elaborate, serving to confirm papal sovereignty over the Christian world, city government, and nobility, while delineating their relationships with the pope.
Rom im Exil – Die fiktiven Räume des Matteo Giovanetti in Avignon
Matteo Giovanetti's surviving frescoes in Avignon's 14th-century papal palace represent a groundbreaking advancement in illusionistic painting, creating complex architectural perspectives and fictitious spaces that transform small chapels into expansive, scenic landscapes. These works, depicting St Martial and St John the Baptist and Evangelist, were designed to replace Rome's significant churches during papal processions, reflecting the political and religious shift of the papacy to Avignon. Giovanetti's technique, characterized by its depth and realism, predates similar developments in Renaissance art, establishing him as a pioneer in illusionistic representation.
The Avignon Bridge: a 3D Reconstruction Project Integrating Archaeological, Historical and Gemorphological Issues
A groundbreaking interdisciplinary project has successfully reconstructed the Avignon Bridge using advanced 3D digital modeling techniques. This reconstruction integrates archaeological, historical, and geomorphological data to virtually restore the bridge's connection between Avignon and Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, which once served as a critical link between Lyon/Vienna and the sea after the Roman bridge of Arles disappeared. The project, spanning four years and involving five laboratories, employed satellite imagery, UAV-based acquisitions, terrestrial laser scanning, and photogrammetry to create a 50 km² digital model. Additionally, this research has been integrated into an augmented reality application, enabling tourists to explore the virtual reconstruction through tablets. This work not only enhances our understanding of the bridge's historical and geomorphological significance but also sets a new standard for interdisciplinary heritage preservation.
The Collections of Pontifical Tithes from the Diocese of Oradea Between 1332-1337
A rare and atypical record of pontifical tithes collected from the Diocese of Oradea between 1332–1337 reveals unique insights into financial strategies during the papacy's centralization in Avignon. Unlike standard practices, these collections were marked by collector reluctance and local stakeholder influence, yet they sustained vital funds for the Apostolic Camera. The study analyzes a Latin register transcribed from this period, detailing tithes from eleven Hungarian dioceses, with the Diocese of Oradea listed first. This document, preserved in Monumenta Vaticana Hungariae, provides structural and fiscal data absent in other sources, offering a nuanced view of medieval financial diplomacy and ecclesiastical administration.
Dr Thomas Fastolf and the History of Law Reporting
The Avignon Papal Court, established during the papacy of John XXII (1316–34), marked a pivotal development in European legal history by institutionalizing case-law reporting through its collegiate body of distinguished auditors. This court, housed in a purpose-built hall ('La Grande Audience') and governed by the 1331 bull Ratio Juris, set unprecedented standards for judicial solemnity and procedural rigor. The study highlights how the Avignon court's structured procedures—including robed hearings, lengthy oaths, and diligent case determination—elevated its authority as a model of excellence in justice, influencing legal traditions across Europe.
Kurienuniversität und stadtrömische Universität von ca. 1300 bis 1471 by Brigide Schwarz (review)
A comprehensive analysis of parallel papal and urban universities in late medieval Rome (1300–1471) reveals their interconnected nature under papal authority, challenging the notion that they were entirely separate institutions. Brigide Schwarz's study, based on extensive archival research including Vatican registers, demonstrates that both the Studium Urbis and the University of the Roman Curia coexisted with overlapping functions, particularly in theology and canon law. The research highlights their symbiotic relationship during the papacy's exile to Avignon, where the University of Avignon also thrived, and sheds light on lesser-known aspects such as teaching during councils and the inclusion of oriental languages. Schwarz's methodology combines historical narrative with prosopographical analysis, leveraging decades of data collection and scholarly collaboration.
Sobre o legado de uma arte efêmera: breve reflexão sobre a fugacidade do evento teatral e sua perenidade na memória do espectador a partir do espetáculo “Cour d’honneur”, de Jérôme Bel (2013)
Jérôme Bel's theatrical performance 'Cour d’honneur' at the Avignon Papal Palace explores how fleeting theatrical experiences endure in spectators' memories. The study examines the interplay between temporality and memory, using personal recollections from audiences to reflect on the lasting impact of ephemeral art. By analyzing these memories, the research reveals that even transient performances leave a significant imprint, challenging conventional notions of artistic legacy. This approach combines qualitative analysis with performance theory, offering insights into how cultural experiences shape collective memory.
Une voûte à clef pendante du XIIIe siècle à Saint-Urbain de Troyes
A rare thirteenth-century hanging keystone, previously unpublished, has been identified in the collegiate church of Saint-Urbain de Troyes. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that such architectural ornaments first appeared in mid-fourteenth-century Gothic structures like the Avignon Papal Palace and Strasbourg Cathedral. Through critical analysis of stylistic features and construction phases, researchers dated the keystone to 1280-1290, making it the oldest known example on French soil. The study also explores its theological significance within the context of the Fête-Dieu observance established by Pope Urban IV, founder of the church.
Aristotle Among Thirteenth-Century Franciscans: Some Preliminary Remarks
A significant portion of medieval Scholastic philosophy and theology, often overshadowed by university settings, was actually produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, which were more numerous and widely distributed across Europe. This research reveals that prominent figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent more time teaching in these studia than in universities, contributing to a vast body of Scholastic literature. Additionally, institutions such as the Papal Court at Avignon played crucial roles in intellectual discourse alongside royal courts. The study compiles essays from a 2008 colloquium, examining the influence of Aristotle on Franciscan thought and broader medieval philosophical traditions across various religious orders and courts.
Building the Augustinian Identity: Giles of Rome as Master of the Order
Scholastic learning and discourse during the later Middle Ages were predominantly shaped within the studia or study-houses of religious orders, rather than universities. These institutions outnumbered universities and were more widely distributed across Europe, playing a crucial role in educating members of mendicant orders—including renowned figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus—in liberal arts and theology. Additionally, significant Scholastic activity occurred at papal courts, such as the Sacred Palace in Avignon, and royal courts. This volume highlights the intellectual contributions of Augustinian Hermits, Dominicans, Franciscans, Carmelites, Benedictines, and Cistercians, alongside the Papal Court's role in shaping medieval thought. Contributions from 25 scholars explore these themes, offering a comprehensive analysis of Scholastic learning beyond traditional academic settings.
Dominican studia in Spain
A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature was produced within the study-houses (studia) of religious orders, rather than universities. This volume highlights the pivotal role of Dominican studia in Spain and other institutional loci like the Papal Court at Avignon, where prominent Scholastic masters such as Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus taught. It challenges the conventional view that universities were the primary centers of Scholastic activity by demonstrating that mendicant orders' studia were more widespread and influential. The research compiles essays from a colloquium exploring philosophy and theology in various religious orders' studia, as well as at papal and royal courts, offering a comprehensive analysis of this understudied aspect of medieval intellectual history.
Epilogue
A significant portion of Scholastic learning and literature in the later Middle Ages was produced within the studia or study-houses of religious orders, rather than universities. These studia outnumbered universities and were more widely distributed across Europe, playing a crucial role in educating members of mendicant orders, including notable figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus. Additionally, the Papal Court, particularly the Sacred Palace at Avignon, served as another key locus for Scholastic discourse alongside royal courts such as those in Naples and Munich. This volume, derived from a 2008 colloquium, compiles essays on the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across various religious orders' studia, as well as intellectual activities at papal and royal courts.
How ‘Aegidian’ Were Later Augustinian Hermits Regarding Intellectual Cognition? Gerard of Siena, Michael of Massa and the Object of the Intellect
A significant portion of medieval Scholastic learning and literature, often overshadowed by university settings, actually originated in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, which were more numerous and widely distributed across Europe. This study highlights that prominent figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent more time teaching in these studia than in universities, contributing to a substantial body of Scholastic works. Additionally, it underscores the role of papal courts, such as the Sacred Palace at Avignon, and royal courts as crucial loci for intellectual discourse during this period. The research draws from contributions by leading scholars, including essays presented at the XVth annual Colloquium of the Société Internationale pour l’Étude de la Philosophie Médiévale, to explore the institutional contexts and intellectual activities of various religious orders and courts.
How Influential Was Giovanni di Napoli, OP, at the Papal Court in Avignon?
Giovanni di Napoli, OP, significantly influenced Scholastic learning and discourse at the Papal Court in Avignon during the later Middle Ages. While universities were traditionally seen as the primary hubs for Scholastic activity, this study reveals that religious orders' studia played an even more pivotal role due to their wider distribution across Europe and greater numbers. Many prominent Scholastic masters, including Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus, spent substantial time teaching in these studia rather than in universities. Additionally, the Papal Court, particularly the Sacred Palace at Avignon, emerged as a significant locus for intellectual activity alongside royal courts. The research compiles contributions from experts to explore this understudied aspect of medieval Scholasticism, emphasizing its institutional context and broader impact.
How the Thomists in Cologne Saved Aristotle: The Debate over the Eternity of the World in the Late-Medieval Period
This volume reveals that the majority of late-medieval Scholastic learning and discourse occurred not in universities but in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, which were more numerous and widely distributed across Europe. It highlights that prominent figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent significant time teaching in these studia rather than as Regent Masters in universities. Additionally, it underscores the role of the Papal Court, notably at the Sacred Palace in Avignon, and royal courts as significant loci for Scholastic activity. The research approach involves contributions from multiple scholars exploring the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across various institutional settings, including those of Dominicans, Franciscans, Augustinian Hermits, Carmelites, Benedictines, Cistercians, and papal and royal courts.
Introduction. Philosophy and Theology in the ‘Studia’ of the Religious Orders and at Papal and Royal Courts
A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature was produced within the studia or study-houses of religious orders, rather than universities. These studia, which outnumbered and were more widely distributed across Europe than universities, provided the primary institutional setting for learning in liberal arts and theology, particularly for members of mendicant orders. Notable figures such as Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent more time teaching in these studia than as Regent Masters in universities. Additionally, the Papal Court—particularly the Sacred Palace at Avignon—and royal courts served as significant loci for Scholastic learning. This volume compiles essays from a colloquium held at the University of Notre Dame, focusing on the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across various religious orders, the Papal Court in Rome and Avignon, and several royal courts.
Philosophy and Theology in the German Dominican scholae in the Late Middle Ages: The Cases of Ulrich of Strasbourg and Berthold of Wimpfen
A significant portion of Scholastic philosophical and theological learning in the late Middle Ages occurred in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, rather than in universities. These studia outnumbered universities and were more widely distributed across Europe. Prominent figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent more time teaching in these studia than as Regent Masters in universities. Consequently, much of the later medieval Scholastic literature was produced in this institutional context. Additionally, the Papal Court, notably the Sacred Palace at Avignon, and several royal courts were significant loci for Scholastic learning. This volume explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology in the studia of various religious orders, as well as intellectual activity at the Papal Court in Rome and Avignon, and at different royal courts.
Political Theory in the Making: Theology, Philosophy and Politics at the Court of Lewis the Bavarian
A significant portion of medieval Scholastic literature, particularly in philosophy and theology, was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, not just universities. These institutions, more numerous and widely distributed than universities, were central to the education of mendicant order members, including renowned figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus. Additionally, papal courts, such as the Sacred Palace at Avignon, and royal courts played crucial roles in Scholastic discourse. This volume explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across these diverse institutional settings, offering insights into their interconnected intellectual activities.
Struggling with Authority: Durand of Saint-Pourçain on the Origin of Power and on Obedience to the Pope
A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature, including works by renowned thinkers such as Albert the Great and Thomas Aquinas, emerged from the studia or study-houses of religious orders rather than universities. These institutions, more numerous and widely distributed across Europe, were central to the education and intellectual output of mendicant order members. Additionally, the Papal Court—particularly the Sacred Palace in Avignon—and royal courts served as crucial loci for Scholastic learning and discourse. This volume highlights the diverse institutional contexts shaping medieval Scholasticism, drawing on contributions from experts who explore the study and teaching practices of various religious orders (Dominicans, Franciscans, etc.) alongside intellectual activity at papal and royal courts.
Tabula siglorum
A significant portion of medieval Scholastic learning and literature, often overshadowed by university settings, was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders. These institutions, more numerous and widely distributed than universities, were central to the education of mendicant order members, including notable figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus, who spent more time teaching there than at universities. Additionally, the Papal Court, particularly the Sacred Palace in Avignon, and royal courts served as crucial loci for Scholastic discourse. This volume, originating from a 2008 colloquium, explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across various religious orders' studia, as well as intellectual activity at papal and royal courts. Contributions from multiple scholars delve into these institutional contexts, providing a comprehensive examination of their roles in medieval Scholasticism.
The Critique of the Doctrine of God as First Known in the Early Carmelite School
This volume challenges the conventional view that medieval Scholastic philosophy and theology primarily flourished within university settings, highlighting instead the significant role played by the studia of religious orders. It reveals that these studia, more numerous and widespread than universities, were the primary sites for the education and intellectual output of prominent figures such as Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus. The research also underscores the importance of other institutional loci, including Papal Courts like the Sacred Palace in Avignon, and royal courts, which served as hubs for Scholastic learning and discourse. Through a collection of essays from the XVth annual Colloquium of the Société Internationale pour l’Étude de la Philosophie Médiévale, the volume explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology across various religious orders and courts, providing a comprehensive analysis of this often-overlooked aspect of medieval intellectual history.
The Dominican Studium Romanae Curiae: The Papacy, the Magisterium and the Friars
Scholastic learning and discourse in the later Middle Ages were predominantly conducted within the studia or study-houses of religious orders, which outnumbered universities and were more widely distributed across Europe. This volume challenges the conventional understanding by highlighting that most members of mendicant orders received their education in these studia rather than at universities, with notable figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spending significant time teaching there. It also underscores the role of the Papal Court, particularly the Sacred Palace at Avignon, as a significant locus for Scholastic activity alongside royal courts. The research compiles essays from experts to explore the study and teaching of philosophy and theology in various religious orders' studia, as well as intellectual activities at papal and royal courts, offering a comprehensive perspective on this understudied aspect of medieval education.
The Franciscan studium generale: A New Interpretation
A new interpretation of the Franciscan studium generale challenges traditional views on medieval Scholastic learning, revealing that these study-houses, rather than universities, were the primary sites for philosophical and theological education. The research demonstrates that most mendicant order members received their education in these studia, and prominent scholars like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus spent more time teaching there than in universities. This volume, drawn from a 2008 colloquium, explores Scholastic activity across various religious orders' studia, as well as at Papal and royal courts, including Avignon's Sacred Palace. Contributions analyze the institutional contexts of learning, highlighting the interconnectedness of these venues and their role in shaping medieval intellectual discourse.
The Legacy of the Bologna studium in Peter Auriol’s Hylomorphism
A significant portion of Scholastic learning and literature during the later Middle Ages was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders, rather than in universities. These studia, which outnumbered and were more widely distributed across Europe than universities, served as primary educational institutions for members of mendicant orders, including prominent figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus. Additionally, the Papal Court, notably at the Sacred Palace in Avignon, played a crucial role in Scholastic discourse alongside royal courts. This volume highlights the institutional contexts and intellectual activities of these venues, featuring contributions from leading scholars.
The Reception of Thomas Aquinas’ Philosophy in the Dominican studia of the Roman Province in the Fourteenth Century
A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature, including the works of renowned figures like Albert the Great and Thomas Aquinas, was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders rather than universities. These studia, more numerous and widely distributed across Europe, served as primary institutional settings for Scholastic learning in philosophy and theology during this period. The research highlights that prominent Scholastic masters often taught in both studia and other significant intellectual hubs such as the Papal Court at Avignon and various royal courts. This volume, stemming from a colloquium on medieval philosophy, explores the study and teaching of philosophy and theology in these diverse institutional contexts, offering insights into the reception of Thomas Aquinas’ philosophy within the Dominican studia of the Roman Province during the fourteenth century.
Ut nostra religione refloreat studium: The studia of the Monastic Orders
A significant portion of later medieval Scholastic literature, including works by renowned thinkers such as Albert the Great and Thomas Aquinas, was produced in the studia or study-houses of religious orders rather than universities. These studia outnumbered universities and were more widely distributed across Europe, serving as primary educational institutions for mendicant order members. The volume also highlights the intellectual activity at Papal Courts, notably the Sacred Palace in Avignon, and royal courts, revealing a complex network of Scholastic learning beyond traditional academic settings.
What the Friars Really Learned at Oxford and Cambridge
A significant portion of medieval Scholastic learning, particularly in philosophy and theology, occurred in the studia or study-houses of religious orders rather than in universities. This counterintuitive finding reveals that most members of mendicant orders, including renowned figures like Albert the Great, Thomas Aquinas, and John Duns Scotus, spent more time teaching in these studia than in university settings. Consequently, a substantial body of Scholastic literature emerged from this institutional context. Additionally, the Papal Court—particularly the Sacred Palace at Avignon—and royal courts served as crucial loci for intellectual activity during this period. The study compiles essays from a 2008 colloquium, analyzing the educational and scholarly practices across various religious orders (Dominicans, Franciscans, Augustinian Hermits, Carmelites, Benedictines, Cistercians) and courts (Rome, Avignon, London, Naples, Munich).
A Companion to the Great Western Schism (1378-1417) (review)
A novel interpretation of the Great Western Schism (1378–1417) challenges conventional views on civil violence during papal elections, suggesting that unruly crowds in Rome were part of traditional celebrations rather than a detrimental force. The study, A Companion to the Great Western Schism, edited by Sean Otto, Joëlle Rollo-Koster, and Thomas M. Izbicki, revises historical narratives by analyzing contemporary evidence to argue that the violence accompanying the election of Pope Urban VI was not as alarming as later portrayed. The volume explores the Schism's multifaceted impacts—spanning political, social, and religious dimensions—across Western Europe, Byzantium, and Islamic regions, offering a comprehensive interdisciplinary perspective. It includes contributions from leading scholars, blending historiography with themes like inter-religious relations, art, and ecclesiastical authority. This work serves as an introductory yet rigorous resource, synthesizing cutting-edge scholarship to reshape understanding of this pivotal medieval crisis.
Christ's golden voice: the chapels of St. Martial and St. John in the Palace of the Popes, Avignon
A fourteenth-century chronicler's description of the papal palace in Avignon, particularly its chapels of St. Martial and St. John, reveals a building of architectural marvel with 'marvelous paintings.' This study focuses on these chapels, providing insights into their significance during the papacy's relocation to Avignon in the 14th century. The research approach involves analyzing historical texts and visual elements, offering a unique perspective on the palace's artistic and cultural importance.
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