What is utramontan?

Answer 1

Utramontanism is a term used to describe a political and religious movement that emphasizes the authority of the Pope and the centralization of the Catholic Church's power, particularly in relation to local bishops and national churches. Originating from the Latin "ultra montes," meaning "beyond the mountains," it historically refers to those who supported the papacy from regions beyond the Alps, particularly in France. The movement gained prominence in the 19th century, especially during the First Vatican Council, which affirmed papal infallibility. Utramontanism often contrasted with Gallicanism, which advocated for the independence of the French church from papal authority.