council · 963 · Rome
The synod of Rome of 963, packed by Otto I, tried and deposed John XII — the pope who had crowned Otto emperor the year before. Canonically dubious and politically naked, it marked the low point of the papacy's dependence before the reform movement rose.
The Synod of Rome (963) was a possibly uncanonical synod held in St. Peter's Basilica from 6 November until 4 December 963, under the authority of the Holy Roman Emperor, Otto I to depose Pope John XII. The events of the synod were recorded by Liutprand of Cremona.
Otto I's move against pope John XII.
John XII deposed on scandalous charges and Leo VIII installed — the empire's heavy hand on the papacy displayed.