Pope Urban VI (202º): Western Schism — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 8 April 1378–15 October 1389
Urban VI was the 202nd pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 8 April 1378–15 October 1389 during the Renaissance papacy. Last pope to be elected outside the College of Cardinals.
Who Was Pope Urban VI?
This biography of Urban VI (202º) 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 Bartolomeo Prignano. Born circa 1318 Naples, 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
Urban VI 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.
Pontificate & Key Events
The pontificate (8 April 1378–15 October 1389) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy.
Papal Acts & Achievements
Urban 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
- 202nd pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 8 April 1378–15 October 1389
- Last pope to be elected outside the College of Cardinals.
- Reigned during the Western Schism.
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Urban VI remains pope 202º 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 Urban VI helps Catholics see how the Holy Spirit guided the Church through the Renaissance papacy — 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
Urban VI followed Pope Gregory XI (201º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Boniface IX (203º), 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.