Pope Gregory XII (205º): Western Schism — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 30 November 1406–4 July 1415
Gregory XII was the 205th pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 30 November 1406–4 July 1415 during the Renaissance papacy. Last pope to abdicate until Benedict XVI(2013).
Who Was Pope Gregory XII?
This biography of Gregory XII (205º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include Western Schism. 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 Angelo Correr. Born circa 1327 Venice, Republic of Venice, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church. Citizen of the Republic of Venice.
Historical Context
Gregory XII 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. Reigned during the Western Schism. Confirmed the Council of Constance(1415); convinced to abdicate to end the Western Schism.
Pontificate & Key Events
The pontificate (30 November 1406–4 July 1415) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy.
Papal Acts & Achievements
Gregory XII 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
- 205th pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 30 November 1406–4 July 1415
- Reigned during the Western Schism.
- Confirmed the Council of Constance(1415); convinced to abdicate to end the Western Schism.
- Last pope to abdicate until Benedict XVI(2013).
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Gregory XII remains pope 205º 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 XII helps Catholics see how the Holy Spirit guided the Church through the Renaissance papacy — with human weakness and grace intertwined. Primary sources from this pontificate — bulls, conciliar acts, or encyclicals — reward readers who want depth beyond summaries. 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 XII followed Pope Innocent VII (204º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Martin V (206º), 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.