Avignon Papacy facts for kids
The Avignon Papacy was a time when the popes lived in Avignon, France. This was instead of their usual home in Rome, Italy. It lasted for about 70 years. A French king, Philip IV of France, played a big part in this. He influenced the election of a French pope. This new pope then chose to live in Avignon.
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What Was the Avignon Papacy?
This period began in 1309. It ended in 1376 when Pope Gregory XI returned to Rome. The popes had lived in Rome for a very long time. Moving to Avignon was a big change.
Why Did the Popes Move?
In the early 1300s, there was a lot of tension. The King of France, Philip IV, had disagreements with the pope. After Pope Boniface VIII died, Philip IV wanted a French pope. He influenced the election of Clement V. Pope Clement V decided to move the papal court to Avignon. This was partly for safety and partly due to political reasons.
Life in Avignon
The popes built a huge palace in Avignon. It was called the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes). This palace became the center of the Catholic Church. Many important decisions were made there. Avignon grew into a very important city. It was a busy place for politics and religion.
Popes Who Lived in Avignon
Seven popes lived in Avignon during this time. They were the official leaders of the Catholic Church.
- Pope Clement V: 1305–1314
- Pope John XXII: 1316–1334
- Pope Benedict XII: 1334–1342
- Pope Clement VI: 1342–1352
- Pope Innocent VI: 1352–1362
- Pope Urban V: 1362–1370
- Pope Gregory XI: 1370–1378
The Return to Rome
Pope Gregory XI decided to move back to Rome. He did this in 1376. This officially ended the Avignon Papacy. However, the return to Rome caused new problems.
Antipopes in Avignon
After the popes returned to Rome, a new problem arose. This was called the Western Schism. Some people did not agree with the pope in Rome. They elected their own popes. These were called "antipopes." Two antipopes were based in Avignon:
- Clement VII: 1378–1394
- Benedict XIII: 1394–1423 (He was forced to leave Avignon in 1403.)
The Western Schism lasted for many years. It caused a lot of confusion in the Church.
Related pages
Images for kids
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An old map of Rome. It shows Rome as a sad widow mourning the popes' absence.
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Pope Clement V in an old drawing.
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Pope John XXII.
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Pope Benedict XII.
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Pope Clement VI.
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Pope Gregory XI returned to Rome in 1376. This ended the Avignon Papacy.
See also
In Spanish: Papado de Aviñón para niños
