Arnulf, finding Rome locked against him and held by Ageltrude, has to take the city by force on February 21, 896, freeing the pope.

He is greeted at the Ponte Milvio by the Roman Senate, who escort him into the Leonine City, where he is received by Pope Formosus on the steps of the Santi Apostoli.

On February 22, 896, Formosus leads the king into the church, anoints and crowns him, and salutes him as Augustus.

Arnulf then proceeds to the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, where he receives the homage of the Roman people.

Arnulf then proceeds to exile to Bavaria two leading senators, Constantine and Stephen, who had helped Ageltrude seize the city.

Leaving one of his vassals, Farold, to hold Rome, Arnulf marches on Spoleto, where Ageltrude had fled to join Lambert.

On his way down, Arnulf suffers a paralyzing stroke, forcing him to call off his campaign and return to Bavaria.