Pope Alexander II (156º): Biography, Pontificate & Legacy

Who Was Pope Alexander II?

Pope Alexander II — 156º in the Catholic list — reigned 30 September 1061–21 April 1073 during the high Middle Ages. Citizen of the Free Commune of Milan. This Guide Catholic profile gathers background, major acts, and legacy so you can read Alexander II beside neighboring pontiffs.

Early Life & Background

Before election he was known as Anselmo da Baggio. Born circa 1018 Baggio, Free Commune of Milan, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church.

Historical Context

Alexander II (#undefined) led during crusades, monastic reform, and cathedral culture — and during sharp contests between popes and emperors over authority in Christendom.

Pontificate & Key Events

The pontificate (30 September 1061–21 April 1073) centered on governance during the high Middle Ages. Authorized the Norman conquest of England.

Papal Acts & Achievements

Acts associated with Alexander II (#156, 30 September 1061–21 April 1073) still draw historians and Catholics who want more than a one-line summary. His reign remains a link in the succession now counted at 267 popes.

Key Highlights

• 156th pope of the Catholic Church
• Pontificate: 30 September 1061–21 April 1073
• Shepherded the Church during the high Middle Ages
• Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list

Legacy in the Catholic Church

Alexander II remains pope 156º in the Annuario Pontificio. Set against the high Middle Ages, Alexander II's choices show both the limits of any one pontiff and the continuity of the office he held.

Why Catholics Study This Pope Today

Catholics who open a page on Alexander II usually want more than a birth-death line — they want to know what #156 did inside the high Middle Ages. Begin with this documented note: Citizen of the Free Commune of Milan. Compare Alexander II with the biographies of his predecessor and successor linked below to see reform, rupture, or quiet continuity.

Place in the Line of Succession

Alexander II followed Pope Nicholas II (155º, 6 December 1058 –27 July 1061) after a transition shaped by the politics and piety of their shared century. He was followed by Pope St. Gregory VII (157º, 22 April 1073–25 May 1085), whose biography continues the chain on Guide Catholic. For the full chronological map, see our complete list of all 267 popes — then read neighboring biographies for contrast, not only continuity.