When was Pope Paul III pope?

Paul III reigned as the 220th pope from 13 October 1534–10 November 1549, during the Renaissance papacy.

What number pope was Paul III?

Paul III was pope 220º — the 220th successor of St. Peter in the Catholic Church's official list of 267 popes.

What is Paul III remembered for?

Paul III is remembered for shepherding the Church during the Renaissance papacy, with a pontificate marked by the challenges and achievements of his historical period.

Who came before and after Pope Paul III?

Paul III (220º) succeeded Pope Clement VII (219º) and was followed by Pope Julius III (221º) in the line of apostolic succession.

Pope Paul III (220º): Council of Trent & Sistine Chapel & Art — Complete Guide

Paul III was the 220th pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 13 October 1534–10 November 1549 during the Renaissance papacy. Subject and later the sovereign of the Papal States.

Who Was Pope Paul III?

This biography of Paul III (220º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include Council of Trent, Sistine Chapel & Art. 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 Alessandro Farnese. Born 29 February 1468 Canino, Papal States, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church.

Historical Context

Paul III 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. Opened the Council of Trent(1545).

Pontificate & Key Events

The pontificate (13 October 1534–10 November 1549) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy. Recognized the Jesuits(1540). His illegitimate son became the first duke of Parma. Decreed the second and final excommunication of King Henry VIII of England.

Papal Acts & Achievements

Paul III 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

220th pope of the Catholic Church
Pontificate: 13 October 1534–10 November 1549
Opened the Council of Trent(1545).
Shepherded the Church during the Renaissance papacy
Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list

Legacy in the Catholic Church

Paul III remains pope 220º 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 Paul III 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

Paul III followed Pope Clement VII (219º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Julius III (221º), 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.