Pope Paul IV (223º): Sistine Chapel & Art — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 23 May 1555–18 August 1559
Paul IV was the 223rd pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 23 May 1555–18 August 1559 during the Renaissance papacy. Established the Roman Ghetto in the bull Cum nimis absurdum(1555) and published the Index of Forbidden Books(1559).
Who Was Pope Paul IV?
This biography of Paul IV (223º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include 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 Gian Pietro Carafa, C.R.. Born 28 June 1476 Capriglia Irpina, Kingdom of Naples, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church. Subject of the Kingdom of Naples.
Historical Context
Paul IV 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 (23 May 1555–18 August 1559) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy. Founder and member of the Theatines. Ordered Michelangelo to repaint the nude figures in The Last Judgment modestly.
Papal Acts & Achievements
Paul IV 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. Papal motto: Dominus mihi adjutor ("The Lord is my helper").
Key Highlights
- 223rd pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 23 May 1555–18 August 1559
- Shepherded the Church during the Renaissance papacy
- Successor of St. Peter in the official Catholic list
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Paul IV remains pope 223º 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 IV 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 IV followed Pope Marcellus II (222º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Pius IV (224º), 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.