Catholic Church. Apostolic Nunciature (France)

A permanent nunciature was established in 1514 by Leo X, following earlier legations. Conflict between the popes and Louis XIV left the post vacant or filled on an interim basis for most of the period from 1671 to 1690. The nuncio left France in 1791 after anticlerical legislation was passed. The office was then abolished. Several special envoys were sent to France during the revolutionary and Napoleonic eras, including a legate a latere who served from 1801 to 1810. The permanent nunciature was reestablished by Pius VII in 1817. The office was held by a nuncio, except during the period of Louis Philippe, when it was held by a charge d'affaires (1831-1836); the nuncio was promoted to an internuncio and envoy extraordinary (1836-1842). Relations were severed during the period 1904-1921.

In addition to the records listed below, series listed with other agencies relate directly to this agency and should be consulted. See Secretariatus Status series Nunziatura di Francia and Nunziature diverse.

To see a general agency history for apostolic nunciatures, internunciatures, and delegations, enter "FIN ID VATV221-A"