With the recent passing of Pope Francis, the world turns its attention once again to the long line of men who’ve worn the white robes of the papacy — some saints, some warriors, some reformers, and others controversial powerbrokers.
Of course, the markets are already wondering who the next pope might be.
But until white smoke plumes from the Vatican, here are some of the most famous and influential popes in history.
Saint Peter (c. 30–64 AD)
Regarded as the first pope, Peter was one of Jesus’s apostles and considered the foundation of the Roman Catholic Church. He was martyred in Rome, and his legacy is tied to the very identity of the papacy.
Pope Leo I (Leo the Great, 440–461)
Famous for meeting Attila the Hun to prevent the sack of Rome, Leo I was a defining voice in early Church doctrine and helped solidify the pope’s spiritual and political authority.
Pope Gregory I (Gregory the Great, 590–604)
A powerful administrator and theologian, Gregory reformed church administration, sent missionaries to England, and inspired the namesake Gregorian chant.
Pope Urban II (1088–1099)
Best known for launching the First Crusade in 1095, Urban II’s call to arms shaped centuries of Christian-Muslim relations and left an enduring mark on European history.
Pope Innocent III (1198–1216)
Arguably the most powerful medieval pope, Innocent III exerted dominance over European monarchs and led crusades while asserting papal supremacy across the continent.
Pope Boniface VIII (1294–1303)
A polarizing figure, Boniface VIII issued the Unam Sanctam, declaring absolute papal authority. His clashes with France foreshadowed the papacy’s waning temporal power.
Pope Leo X (1513–1521)
A Medici pope who embodied the extravagance of the Renaissance Church. He infamously authorized the sale of indulgences, which led Martin Luther to post his 95 Theses and ignite the Reformation.
Pope Pius XII (1939–1958)
He led the Church during World War II. His papacy remains controversial for his perceived silence during the Holocaust, though defenders argue he worked discreetly to save lives.
Pope John XXIII (1958–1963)
Beloved for his warmth and humility, he launched the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II), which transformed the Church’s relationship with the modern world.
Pope John Paul II (1978–2005)
One of the most influential figures of the 20th century, he was a staunch opponent of Communism, traveled the globe, and brought deep charisma to the papacy. He was later canonized as a saint.
Pope Francis (2013–2025)
And, of course, Pope Francis.
The first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope, Francis was known for his humility, progressive tone, and emphasis on mercy, environmental stewardship, and social justice.
He pushed the Church to engage with the modern world, often sparking debate from both conservatives and reformers alike. His papacy marked a significant shift in tone, if not always in doctrine — and his legacy will be measured in both his compassion and courage.
