Pope Gregory XI (201º): Avignon Papacy — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 30 December 1370–27 March 1378
Gregory XI was the 201st pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 30 December 1370–27 March 1378 during the Renaissance papacy. Subject of the Kingdom of France.
Who Was Pope Gregory XI?
This biography of Gregory XI (201º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include Avignon Papacy. During the Renaissance papacy, the Bishop of Rome exercised teaching, sanctifying, and governing authority for the universal Church.
Early Life & Background
Before election he was known as Pierre Roger de Beaufort. Born circa 1329 Maumont, Limousin, Kingdom of France, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church.
Historical Context
Gregory XI sat on the Chair of Peter during the Renaissance, when popes were among the most powerful patrons of art and architecture in Europe — but also faced corruption scandals, the Protestant Reformation, and the discovery of the New World.
Pontificate & Key Events
The pontificate (30 December 1370–27 March 1378) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy. Pope at Avignon; returned the seat of the papacy to Rome (1377).
Papal Acts & Achievements
Gregory XI left a distinct mark through decisions that historians still debate and Catholics still study. His reign contributed to the continuous apostolic succession now numbering 267 popes.
Key Highlights
- 201st pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 30 December 1370–27 March 1378
- Shepherded the Church during the Renaissance papacy
- Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Gregory XI remains pope 201º in the Annuario Pontificio. Read against the Renaissance papacy, his pontificate shows how Providence works through imperfect ministers without abandoning the Barque of Peter.
Why Catholics Study This Pope Today
Studying Gregory XI helps Catholics see how the Holy Spirit guided the Church through the Renaissance papacy — with human weakness and grace intertwined. Place this pope in context using our chronological list of all 267 popes and the biographies of his immediate predecessor and successor linked below.
Place in the Line of Succession
Gregory XI followed Pope Bl. Urban V (200º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Urban VI (202º), who continued the mission of shepherding the universal Church. Explore the full chronological chain in our complete list of all 267 popes, or read the biographies of neighboring pontiffs linked below.