John X, the Balkans, and Byzantium. Papal Power and its Limits in South-Eastern Europe

This paper examines the interactions of the Roman Church with south-eastern Europe and Byzantium during the pontificate of John X (914–928). On several occasions, the pope engaged with these regions: Rome’s defence against the Saracens and the resolution of the Tetragamy affair brought him into contact with Byzantium; the two synods of Split established ties with the Dalmatian-Croatian ruler and episcopate; and on at least two occasions, John sought to establish relations with the Bulgarians. This study argues that the political elites of these regions actively sought Roman support while at the same time restraining and reshaping papal decisions and declarations to serve their own interests, thereby adapting papal authority to their needs.