Pope Innocent VI (199º): Avignon Papacy — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 18 December 1352–12 September 1362
Innocent VI was the 199th pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 18 December 1352–12 September 1362 during the high Middle Ages. Through his exertions, the Treaty of Brétigny was signed and ratified.
Who Was Pope Innocent VI?
This biography of Innocent VI (199º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include Avignon Papacy. During the high Middle Ages, the Bishop of Rome exercised teaching, sanctifying, and governing authority for the universal Church.
Early Life & Background
Before election he was known as Étienne Aubert. Born circa 1282 Les Monts, Limousin, Kingdom of France, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church. Subject of the Kingdom of France.
Historical Context
Innocent VI led the Church in the high Middle Ages — an era of crusades, monastic reform, cathedral building, and intense negotiation between popes and emperors over who held ultimate authority in Christendom.
Pontificate & Key Events
The pontificate (18 December 1352–12 September 1362) centered on governance during the high Middle Ages.
Papal Acts & Achievements
Innocent VI 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
- 199th pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 18 December 1352–12 September 1362
- Shepherded the Church during the high Middle Ages
- Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Innocent VI remains pope 199º in the Annuario Pontificio. Read against the high Middle Ages, his pontificate shows how Providence works through imperfect ministers without abandoning the Barque of Peter.
Why Catholics Study This Pope Today
Studying Innocent VI helps Catholics see how the Holy Spirit guided the Church through the high Middle Ages — 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
Innocent VI followed Pope Clement VI (198º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Bl. Urban V (200º), 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.