Pope Innocent facts for kids

Pope Innocent refers to several leaders of the Roman Catholic Church. The title "Pope" is given to the Bishop of Rome, who is also the head of the Catholic Church worldwide. Many popes have chosen the name Innocent during their time as pope. This page lists the different popes who used this name.

Who Were the Popes Named Innocent?

There have been thirteen popes who took the name Innocent. Each of them served during different periods in history, from the early 5th century to the 18th century. They played important roles in shaping the history of the Church and the world.

Pope Innocent I: An Early Church Leader

• Pope Innocent I served from 401 to 417 AD. He was a very important figure in the early days of the Christian Church. He is recognized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.

Popes Innocent II to V: Medieval Times

• Pope Innocent II was pope from 1130 to 1143. His time as pope was during a period of change in Europe.
• Pope Innocent III served from 1198 to 1216. He was one of the most powerful popes in history. He had a big influence on politics and religion in Europe.

  There was also an Antipope Innocent III. An antipope is someone who claims to be pope but is not officially recognized by the Church.

• Pope Innocent IV was pope from 1243 to 1254. He faced many challenges during his time.
• Pope Innocent V had a very short time as pope in 1276.

Popes Innocent VI to IX: Later Medieval and Renaissance Eras

• Pope Innocent VI served from 1352 to 1362. He was pope during a time when the popes lived in Avignon, France, instead of Rome.
• Pope Innocent VII was pope from 1404 to 1406. His papacy was during a difficult period for the Church.
• Pope Innocent VIII served from 1484 to 1492. He was pope during the Renaissance, a time of great art and discovery.
• Pope Innocent IX was pope for a very short time in 1591.

Popes Innocent X to XIII: Modern History

• Pope Innocent X was pope from 1644 to 1655. He lived during a time of major changes in Europe.
• Pope Innocent XI served from 1676 to 1689. He was known for his efforts to reform the Church.
• Pope Innocent XII was pope from 1691 to 1700. He worked to improve the lives of the poor.
• Pope Innocent XIII served from 1721 to 1724. He was the last pope to use the name Innocent.