This article outlines the right of asylum as a judicial institute in the early modern period, when modern states have been forming. Special attention is given to the dynamic struggle between the church asylum, as well as the church judicial system in general, and the state’s secular power.Specific attributes of the right of asylum and its evolution in time are studied from different viewpoints; understanding of the term and its content, legal continuity of the right of asylum,conditions, under which asylum was granted and the different forms of asylum. General observations and supported by specific historical examples and references.