Pio, Carlo, d. 1689.

The Pio da Carpi family is famous in the history of Italy, involving many lines connected to well-known family names forming somewhat of a consortium. In the ninth and tenth centuries they had vast possessions especially in Parmigiano, Reggiano, and Modena. In the twelfth century Bernardo was the founder or head of one branch. From him were derived many lines that died out: the marquises of Trent (1747); the princes Pio di Savoia extinct in 1776 and called di Savoia from their founder Alberto (1455-1531) who, for favors rendered, had received from Duke Ludovico for himself and his descendants the privilege of assuming name, title, and arms of Savoia.

Carlo Pio (1622-1689), after having served in the pontifical army, was taken prisoner by the Florentines and transferred to Rome. Chosen to be a member of the staff in the Apostolic Camera, he later became general treasurer (some say through bribery). In 1654 Innocent X named him cardinal and legate of Urbino. The following year he was elected bishop of Ferrara. In 1682 he returned to Rome, where he was appointed prefect of the Congregazione del Buon Governo and in 1683 named bishop of Sabina.

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