AD 869–870

Fourth Council of Constantinople

The contested depositions of the patriarchs Ignatios and Photios.

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Location: Constantinople
Leaders: Emperor Basil I; legates of Pope Hadrian II; the disputed patriarch Photios
Issues discussed: The legitimacy of Photios's election
Jurisdiction over the newly converted Bulgarians
Decisions made: Deposed Photios and restored Ignatios
Historical impact: Counted as ecumenical by Catholics only; a later synod of 879–880, which reinstated Photios, holds that place in Orthodox reckoning.

Viewpoints compared

Orthodox tradition regards the synod of 879–880 under Photios as the authoritative one and does not receive the council of 869–870.