Pope Gregory XI
Roman Catholic Pope, returned papacy to Rome
Born
1336
690 years ago
Died
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Italy
Links & References
Elected as Pope in 1370, this religious leader served during a period of significant upheaval in the Catholic Church, including the Avignon Papacy. After several years in France, returned the papacy to Rome in 1377, ending nearly 70 years of papal residence in Avignon. This move marked a pivotal moment in church history. The return aimed to restore the authority of the papacy within Italy and Europe, encouraging other clergy to relocate as well. The reign faced challenges including the ongoing Great Schism, which would arise shortly after the leader's death.
Returned the papacy to Rome in 1377
Served as Pope during the late 14th century
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