Now, a good word to describe many of the Popes of the time, is "notorious." I can't say I can find much sympathy for them....

Alexander VI Borgia was Pope 1492-1503, and holds the undisputed title of Worst Pope of All Time. The next Pope, Pius III, died after less than a month in office. The next guy, Pius II, was Pope 1503-1513, was known as "The Warrior Pope" and "The Fearsome Pope." I saw one depiction of him in a gold suit of armor.

Next came Leo X (1513-1521), famous for granting indulgences to those who donated to the reconstruction of St. Peter's Basilica - that inspired Luther to post his 95 Theses. Leo was followed by several Popes of varying levels of notoriety. I should note Julius III (Pope from 1550-1555), who had an interesting relationship with an adopted "nephew." One of my favorites was Pius V (Pope from 1566-72). Pius V has his name on more churches in Rome, than the Richard Dalys have on public buildings in Chicago.

It's great fun to study the notorious Popes of the 16th century. No wonder there was a Reformation.



-Joe, seminary-educated Catholic-