Everything Everywhere Daily · Wednesday, August 26, 2026
The return of the Papacy to Rome in 1377 initiated a significant revival, with Popes commissioning extensive artistic and architectural projects to transform the city. By 1500, Rome's population had rebounded to an estimated 130,000 to 150,000 inhabitants, and it was once again a major European city, primarily religious in importance.
“The return of the Papacy to Rome permanently in 1377 initiated Rome's remarkable revival.”
“Popes began transforming Rome into a capital worthy of the Catholic Church.”
“By the year 1500, Rome probably had around 130 to 150,000 inhabitants.”