Strengthened by his renewed credibility, Henry IV undertook a new expedition to Italy in 1081 to reassert his rule. One of his first acts was the decree deposing Matilda, who was banished from the empire. However, the Grand Countess did not give up, and while Gregory VII was forced into exile, Matilda exploited the network of castles, fortresses, and fortified villages in her Apennine possessions to wear down the opposing forces.
