Medieval Canon Law System

Timeline

1. c. 1140Bologna · Emilia-RomagnaGratian compiled the Decretum Gratiani in Bologna, systematically organizing decretals, patristic writings, and Roman law materials, laying the foundational text of the glossator tradition in canon law.
2. 1161–1170Europe (the papal court and royal courts) · EuropeBetween 1160 and 1170, canon law served as the juridical basis for the contest between papacy and monarchy over episcopal appointments, clerical jurisdiction, and protection of church property; the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170 further highlighted disputes over ecclesiastical jurisdiction and the principle of sanctuary.
3. c. 1170–1234Bologna and Paris · FranceGlossators in Bologna, Paris, and elsewhere annotated the Decretum article by article, and subsequent decretal collections (such as the Extra series) gradually expanded, forming a complete medieval canon law corpus.