The Battle of Canossa refers to a significant event in 1077 during the power struggle between Pope Gregory VII and the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV. The conflict arose over the issue of investiture, where the Pope sought to limit the emperor's influence over the appointment of bishops. In January 1077, Henry IV traveled to Canossa, Italy, to seek forgiveness from Gregory VII. After enduring three days of penance in the snow, the Pope ultimately granted absolution, highlighting the tension between church and state during the Middle Ages. This event marked a pivotal moment in the Investiture Controversy.