Haus Colonna
Von den schattigen Türmen des mittelalterlichen Rom bis zu den Hallen des modernen Italiens hat das Haus Colonna über neun Jahrhunderte überdauert – und dabei päpstliche Intrigen, dynastische Kriege und die unerbittlichen Strömungen der Geschichte überstanden.
"Nulla Pallescere Virtus"

Quick Facts
- Years Active
- 1100–present
- Founder
- Pietro de Columna
- Region
- Europe
- Religion
- Catholic
Notable Rulers
Pietro de Columna
Patriarch of the House of Colonna
Reign: 1100 – 1143
FounderPietro de Columna stands as the foundational figure in the long and often turbulent saga of the Colonna dynasty. Documen...
Giovanni Colonna
Cardinal of the Roman Church
Reign: 1206 – 1245
Giovanni Colonna, appointed cardinal in 1206, represents a transformative figure in the history of both his family and t...
Oddone Colonna (Pope Martin V)
Pope Martin V
Reign: 1417 – 1431
Oddone Colonna, remembered in history as Pope Martin V, stands as a figure whose personal ambitions and political instin...
Vittoria Colonna
Marchioness of Pescara
Reign: 1518 – 1547
Vittoria Colonna stands out as one of the most remarkable figures of the Italian Renaissance, not merely for her noble b...
Marcantonio Colonna
Prince of Paliano, Admiral
Reign: 1562 – 1584
Marcantonio Colonna stands as one of the most formidable figures of the Italian Renaissance, a scion of the powerful Col...
Documentary Chapters
Timeline
Founding of the House of Colonna
Pietro de Columna establishes the family’s power base in the village of Colonna, laying the foundations for nearly a millennium of influence.
Giovanni Colonna Becomes Cardinal
Giovanni Colonna is appointed cardinal, marking the family’s entry into the highest circles of the Roman Church and papal politics.
Excommunication and Conflict with Pope Boniface VIII
The Colonna are excommunicated and their properties targeted, leading to a dramatic escalation in their rivalry with the Orsini and the papacy.
Destruction of Palestrina
Papal forces destroy the Colonna stronghold of Palestrina in a punitive campaign, symbolizing the family’s temporary downfall.
Oddone Colonna Elected Pope Martin V
Oddone Colonna is elected pope, ends the Western Schism, and ushers in a new era of Colonna influence in both church and state.
Vittoria Colonna Marries Marquis of Pescara
Vittoria Colonna’s marriage links the family to the powerful d’Avalos house, enhancing their standing in Renaissance Italy.
Battle of Lepanto
Marcantonio Colonna commands the papal fleet at Lepanto, playing a pivotal role in the defeat of the Ottoman navy.
Expansion of Palazzo Colonna
The family undertakes major renovations of their principal residence, transforming it into one of Rome’s grandest palaces.
Napoleonic Occupation of Rome
The Colonna estates are confiscated during the French occupation, marking a low point in the family’s fortunes.
Restoration of Colonna Properties
Following the upheavals of the 19th century, the family regains key properties and adapts to the new political order.
Italian Republic Recognizes Historic Titles
With the abolition of the monarchy, Colonna titles are retained as historical honors, reflecting the family’s enduring legacy.
Colonna Family as Custodians of Heritage
Today, the Colonna remain active as stewards of their architectural and cultural heritage, opening the Palazzo Colonna to the public and supporting historical scholarship.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, companies, and treaties that share history with this dynasty.

Civilization Archive
(6)Almohad Civilization
The House of Colonna rose to prominence during the Almohad Caliphate's influence, which reshaped Mediterranean trade and cultural exchanges.
Anglo-Saxon Civilization
The House of Colonna's establishment coincided with the Anglo-Saxon period, a time of significant cultural and political transformation in Europe.
Austrian Empire
The House of Colonna's influence paralleled the Austrian Empire's rise, affecting European alliances and territorial disputes during the era.
Byzantine Empire
During the Byzantine Empire's decline, the House of Colonna leveraged shifting alliances, affecting the balance of power in medieval Europe.
Holy Roman Empire
The House of Colonna significantly impacted the Holy Roman Empire's politics, often clashing with emperors over control and influence.
Papal States
The House of Colonna's involvement in the Papal States' affairs often led to power struggles, shaping the region's political and religious landscape.
Conflict Archive
(2)Fall of Constantinople
The Fall of Constantinople in 1453 reshaped the geopolitical landscape, impacting the House of Colonna's strategic decisions in Italy.
First Crusade
The First Crusade's aftermath enabled the House of Colonna to expand its influence, capitalizing on the redistribution of land and power.
Explore Related Archives
Royal dynasties shaped civilizations, waged wars, and built empires that influenced modern commerce. Continue exploring the interconnected tapestry of history.
