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In the early 14th century, a remarkable tale unfolded involving Thébaud de Castillon, a bishop whose wealth and dealings would eventually draw the attention of a pope and a band of pirates. Thébaud, who became Bishop of Lisbon in 1348, was not just a religious figure but also a shrewd businessman. His commercial ventures in Montpellier, including substantial investments in trading schemes, allowed him to amass a significant fortune. However, his methods, including dealings that bordered on usury, were canonically irregular and raised eyebrows within the church.
When Thébaud died in 1356, Pope Innocent VI, facing financial strain, swiftly moved to claim the bishop’s assets. The Pope’s urgency was fueled by the dire economic situation in Avignon, exacerbated by the Black Death and other calamities. However, the papal treasure ship, laden with Thébaud’s wealth, was intercepted by pirates off the coast of Cardinia. The pirates, from Seville and Genoa, seized the treasure and split it among themselves. Despite being allies, the lure of gold led them to betray their affiliations.
The tale took another twist when the pirate ship was blown ashore in southern France, where local authorities captured the crew and recovered the treasure. Much of Thébaud’s wealth was eventually returned to the papal coffers, although some remained lost. This episode, blending ecclesiastical power, financial desperation, and high-seas piracy, highlights how even forgotten figures like Thébaud de Castillon can leave a lasting legacy, influencing the course of history.
Top image: Fresco of Pope Innocent VI, 1365, at the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Source: Public Domain