Anastasius IV., 1153–1154

The Cardinal Conrad, a Roman belonging to the Suburra, mounted the papal throne as Anastasius IV. on July 12, 1153. His election was unanimous, and was not disputed by the Senate, for although the Senators were present at the ceremony of election, they did not yet interfere in spiritual affairs. The popes, however, now found themselves opposed by a new power, which refused recognition to them unless they on their side recognised it. The aged Anastasius does not seem to have made any encroachments on the Roman constitution. He lived peaceably in the city, and died there on December 3, 1154.

Adrian IV., Pope, 1154–1159

The papal chair was now filled by a man of unusual energy, Nicholas Breakspear, an Englishman by birth. Thirst for knowledge had driven the son of a poor priest of S. Alban's to France, where, after varied fortunes, he became prior of S. Rufus near Aries. His culture, his eloquence, and his handsome presence attracted the attention of Eugenius III. when Breakspear came to Rome on business connected with his convent. The Pope made him Cardinal of Albano, and sent him as legate to Norway, where he ordered the affairs of the Church with great circumspection.