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Name:
Pope John XIII
Preceded by: Benedict V (964)
Succeeded by: Benedict VI (973 - 974)
Roman Catholic Pope #134
Dates:
Born: ? (Rome)
Died: September 6, 972
Pope: October 1, 965 - September 6, 972 (6 years, 11 months, 5 days)
Biography:
Pope John XIII was, for the most part, a embarrassment to the Roman Catholic Church
and remains so even to this day. His pursuit of women was so extensive and unashamed
that the Latern Palace came to be known as a little more than a brothel.
His handling of political disagreements was disasterous, forcing him to ask German leader Otto for help. Otto was able to restore order in Northern Italy and, in return, John crowned him Emperor in the West on Februrary 2, 962. John, however, didn't even handle this situation very well because after Otto left, John started to conspire with the son of the King of Italy, Berengar, with whom Otto was at war. This naturally infuriated Otto, who promptly returned to Rome, deposed John, and had Pope Leo VIII installed in his pace.
So who was John's legitimate successor, Leo VIII or Benedict V? Who was simply an antipope? That is an open question. When John died, the Roman people disregarded Leo and ensured the election of Benedict, and today he is treated as the legitimate successor of John.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
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