Pope Anastasius IV (168º): Biography, Pontificate & Legacy

Who Was Pope Anastasius IV?

Anastasius IV holds the 168º place among Roman pontiffs, with a recorded reign of 12 July 1153–3 December 1154 inside the high Middle Ages. Subject and later the sovereign of the Papal States. What follows is a structured biography — early life, context, acts, and succession — written for Catholics who want Anastasius IV in context.

Early Life & Background

Before election he was known as Corrado Demetri della Suburra. Born circa 1073 Rome, Papal States, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church.

Historical Context

Anastasius IV (#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 (12 July 1153–3 December 1154) centered on governance during the high Middle Ages.

Papal Acts & Achievements

Acts associated with Anastasius IV (#168, 12 July 1153–3 December 1154) 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

• 168th pope of the Catholic Church
• Pontificate: 12 July 1153–3 December 1154
• Shepherded the Church during the high Middle Ages
• Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list

Legacy in the Catholic Church

Anastasius IV remains pope 168º in the Annuario Pontificio. Set against the high Middle Ages, Anastasius IV's choices show both the limits of any one pontiff and the continuity of the office he held.

Why Catholics Study This Pope Today

Reading Anastasius IV as pope 168º (12 July 1153–3 December 1154) is a way to study how Rome answered the crises of the high Middle Ages. Begin with this documented note: Subject and later the sovereign of the Papal States. Use the neighboring pontiff links below to test whether Anastasius IV's reign looks unique or typical for the high Middle Ages.

Place in the Line of Succession

Anastasius IV followed Pope Bl. Eugene III (167º, 15 February 1145–8 July 1153) after a transition shaped by the politics and piety of their shared century. He was followed by Pope Adrian IV (169º, 4 December 1154–1 September 1159), 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.