The Sack of Rome in 1527 by the troops of Charles V marked a crucial imperial victory in the conflict between the emperor and the League of Cognac (1526–1529), consisting of France, Milan, Venice, Florence and the papacy. With the sack of the papal capital Charles V struck decisively against Pope Clement VII and imprisoned him. This marked the end of the Roman Renaissance, damaged the papacy's prestige and freed Charles' hands to act against the Reformation in Germany. Nevertheless Martin Luther commented: "Christ reigns in such a way that the emperor who persecutes Luther for the pope is forced to destroy the pope for Luther" (LW 49:169). Charles III, 8th duc de Bourbon and Constable of France was killed during the sacking.

See also

• Battle of the Allia (390 BC)