The Catholic Counter-Reformation was a movement within the Catholic Church that began in the 16th century as a response to the Protestant Reformation. It aimed to reform the Church from within and to counter the spread of Protestantism. Key elements included the establishment of new religious orders, such as the Jesuits, and the reaffirmation of Catholic doctrines at the Council of Trent. This period also saw the Church enhancing its educational efforts and promoting the arts to inspire faith. The Counter-Reformation emphasized the importance of tradition, the sacraments, and the authority of the Pope, seeking to restore Catholic unity and strengthen the Church's influence in Europe.