 Painted in the backdrop of political struggles between Pope Innocent IV and the freshly excommunicated holy Roman emperor Frederick II, the frescoes are meant to underscore the desired sovereignty of the Church (Pope Silvester) over the Empire (Constantine).When the Popes moved to Avignon (14th century), the Cardinal Palace fell into ruin.Thus, upon the return of the Popes to Rome with Pope Martin V, a restoration was necessary.