Title: Matilde e il tesoro dei Canossa
Description: The "Matilde Donna Europea" is the most important female figure in Medieval Europe and one of the leading figures recounted by history. The Grand Duchess was courageous, learned, of noble birth and had an international cultural outlook. She was actively involved in European political affairs, having a profound influence at a social and cultural level. The Matildic dominions, lying between the Emperor's territories and those of the Church, were of significant strategic value, forming a "buffer" zone highly sought-after by both sides. Matilde played a fundamental role as mediator, culminating in the famous meeting in January 1077 between the Emperor Henry IV and Pope Gregory VII at Canossa Castle. The charisma and fascination of a woman who embodied what it means to be a woman in the heart of the Middle Ages has given rise to a legend extending over almost a thousand years and has ended up by also being an important part of contemporary European history (not only Emilian).
Subjects: Medieval Art, Art patronage, Italian Art, Exhibitions, Christian art and symbolism, Romanesque Art, History
Places: Reggio Emilia (Province), Italy
People: Matilde di Canossa, contessa (1046-1115)
Time periods: 12th century, 11th century