Restoration, development and international projection of a Portuguese diocese in the Middle Ages: the case of Porto (1112-1248) | Norma Transitória

This project aims at studying the diocese of Porto between 1112 and 1248. The main idea is to analyse this diocese from a double perspective. On the one hand, it is important to frame the action of the bishops of Porto in the process of territorialization of episcopal power in the Iberian Peninsula occurred since the end of the 11th century. On the other hand, it is essential to contextualize the development of this diocese at a national and international level, analysing its relations with other bishoprics, the Iberian political powers and Rome. The connection with the Papacy since the pontificate of D. Hugo (1112-1136) is crucial to understand the progressive construction and affirmation of the Portuguese episcopate in the Middle Ages. The relationship with Rome places the territory of the County and Kingdom of Portugal in the European policy of the Papacy, focussed on the affirmation of Roman Primacy, transforming Portugal from the “periphery” of Europe into a significant political centre all along the 12th and 13th centuries. For this reason, the chosen period allows us to analyze the progressive development of the diocese of Porto from its restoration to the deposition of King Sancho II, a period that was fundamental in the history of Portugal.