During the Middle Ages, the power of European monarchs and the Catholic Church were closely intertwined. Monarchs relied on the support and legitimacy provided by the Church, while the Church used its influence over the spiritual beliefs of the people to consolidate its own authority. The Church crowned and anointed monarchs in elaborate coronation ceremonies, symbolizing their divine right to rule. In turn, monarchs often supported and enforced the Church's doctrine and authority in their kingdoms. This symbiotic relationship between the monarchs and the Church allowed both to exercise significant power over the people and maintain social order during a time of limited centralized authority.
SMALLER
European monarchs in the Middle Ages depended on the Catholic Church for legitimacy and support, while the Church used its spiritual influence to strengthen its own power.
