Pope Nicholas IV (191º): Biography, Pontificate & Legacy

Who Was Pope Nicholas IV?

Nicholas IV holds the 191º place among Roman pontiffs, with a recorded reign of 22 February 1288–4 April 1292 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 Nicholas IV in context.

Early Life & Background

Before election he was known as Girolamo Masci, O.F.M.. Born 30 September 1227 Lisciano, Papal States, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church. Member of the Franciscan Order. Religious formation in Franciscan Order shaped his approach to the papal office.

Historical Context

Nicholas 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 (22 February 1288–4 April 1292) centered on governance during the high Middle Ages.

Papal Acts & Achievements

Acts associated with Nicholas IV (#191, 22 February 1288–4 April 1292) 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

• 191st pope of the Catholic Church
• Pontificate: 22 February 1288–4 April 1292
• Shepherded the Church during the high Middle Ages
• Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list

Legacy in the Catholic Church

Nicholas IV remains pope 191º in the Annuario Pontificio. Set against the high Middle Ages, Nicholas 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

Place Nicholas IV on your mental map: 191º successor of Peter, reigning 22 February 1288–4 April 1292, formed by the high Middle Ages. Begin with this documented note: Subject and later the sovereign of the Papal States. Compare Nicholas IV with the biographies of his predecessor and successor linked below to see reform, rupture, or quiet continuity.

Place in the Line of Succession

Nicholas IV followed Pope Honorius IV (190º, 2 April 1285–3 April 1287) after a transition shaped by the politics and piety of their shared century. He was followed by Pope St. Celestine V (192º, 5 July 1294–13 December 1294), 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.