ABSTRACT
One of the results of the strengthening of the temporal power of the popes was the creation of the provincial Treasuries towards the end of the thirteenth century (the first was the Treasury of the Marches, created in 1272). Originally the treasurer was no more than an official who was answerable to the rettore (rector), and it was not until the beginning of the fourteenth century that he was entrusted with the actual administration of the collection of taxes. During this century he became increasingly autonomous, thanks to a series of papal interventions. A precise regulation on the office of the treasurer was included in the Costituzioni egidiane in 1356. Among other things, these established that it was his responsibility to keep a record of the accounts, which would then be authenticated by a notary of the Apostolic Chamber. The regulation stated that several original copies of the books had to be kept, one of which had to be submitted to the audit of the clerks of the Chamber.1 With these new powers of collection the treasurer, who was already responsible for administering the assets of the Church of Rome, became representative of the Church in all financial transactions, although he was not permitted to alienate the assets of the Church itself.2 On stepping down from office he would formally recognize his successor, provide him with all the necessary information about the current state of the business affairs, and hand over his powers.
