The Catholic Reformation, or Counter-Reformation, was the Catholic Church's response to the challenge of the Protestant Reformation.

The movement had two main goals: internal reform to address corruption and a 'counter' effort to stop the spread of Protestantism.

The Council of Trent (1545-1563) was the central event of the Catholic Reformation.

The Council reaffirmed core Catholic doctrines, such as the importance of both faith and good works, the seven sacraments, and the authority of the Pope.

It also mandated significant reforms, including banning the sale of indulgences and creating seminaries to improve the education of priests.

New religious orders were founded to revitalize the church, with the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) being the most prominent.

The Roman Inquisition was strengthened as a tool to investigate and prosecute heresy.

The 'Index of Forbidden Books' was created to prevent the spread of what the Church considered heretical literature.

Baroque art, with its dramatic and emotional style, was used to convey the power and glory of the Catholic faith.

The Counter-Reformation successfully revitalized the Catholic Church and stemmed the tide of Protestantism in many parts of Europe.