The Avignon Papacy was the period from 1309 to 1377 during which seven successive popes resided in Avignon, in modern-day France, rather than in Rome.

This period began after a conflict between the French king and the papacy, leading to the election of a French pope who chose to move the papal court.

The Avignon popes were seen as being under the influence of the French monarchy, damaging the papacy's prestige and universal authority.

The papal court at Avignon became known for its luxury and administrative efficiency, but also for corruption.

In 1377, Pope Gregory XI returned the papacy to Rome.

After his death, a dispute over the papal election led to the Great Western Schism (1378-1417).

During the schism, two (and later three) rival popes claimed legitimacy, one in Rome and one in Avignon, dividing Europe's political and religious loyalties.

The schism created immense confusion and further damaged the authority of the Church.

The Council of Constance (1414-1418) finally resolved the schism by deposing the rival popes and electing a new one.

These crises in the 14th-century church weakened its authority and helped to pave the way for the Protestant Reformation.