Pope Nicholas III, born Giovanni Gaetano Orsini in 1225, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1277 until his death in 1280. He was known for his efforts to reform the Church and strengthen papal authority during a time of political turmoil in Italy. Nicholas III was also involved in the establishment of the University of Rome. During his papacy, Nicholas III sought to improve relations with the Holy Roman Empire and worked to resolve conflicts between various Italian city-states. He is remembered for his contributions to the development of the papal states and his support for the Franciscan and Dominican orders.