See list of 10 oldest Popes in Catholic history

The passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, marked the end of an era in the Roman Catholic Church.

Known globally for his humility, commitment to the poor, and efforts to reform one of the world’s most enduring institutions, Francis left a profound legacy.

His death concluded a papacy that lasted over a decade and earned him a place among the oldest pontiffs in Catholic history.

As the Church begins the solemn process of electing a new pope through the traditional ‘sede vacante’ period and the upcoming conclave, attention has also turned to the remarkable longevity of some of its previous leaders.

Throughout history, the papal office has been held by men of varying ages—some ascending the throne of St. Peter in the bloom of youth, while others, like Francis, took up the mantle late in life and served into their twilight years.

This article highlights the ten oldest popes in the history of the Catholic Church, exploring not only their age but the lasting influence they each had on the faith, the Vatican, and the global Catholic community.

1. Pope Leo XIII – Age: 93 years and 140 days (March 2, 1810 – July 20, 1903)

Pope Leo XIII holds the distinction of being the oldest pope in history, living to the age of 93 years and 140 days.

His papacy lasted more than 25 years, making him the fourth-longest-reigning pope.

A revered intellectual and advocate for social justice, Leo XIII is best remembered for his groundbreaking encyclical ‘Rerum Novarum’, which addressed the rights and duties of capital and labor, laying the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching.

His ability to bridge traditional Catholic doctrine with the emerging challenges of the modern world ensured his legacy as a transformative leader.

2. Pope Celestine III – Age: 92 years (c. 1106 – January 8, 1198)

Born Giacinto Bobone, Celestine III became pope at the impressive age of 85 and served nearly six years.

Despite his advanced age, he remained intellectually active and spiritually dedicated.

Interestingly, Celestine III repeatedly expressed his desire to resign due to old age, but the College of Cardinals insisted he remain in office until his death at age 92.

His papacy is notable for navigating the complex politics of the Holy Roman Empire and England, as well as his advocacy for ecclesiastical reforms.

3. Pope Francis – Age: 88 (December 17, 1936 – April 21, 2025)

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis became the 266th pontiff and the first from Latin America.

His papacy began in March 2013 and spanned over 12 years. Known for his pastoral approach, emphasis on mercy, and concern for the marginalized, Francis sought to make the Church more inclusive and responsive to global challenges, including climate change, migration, and inequality.

He died after a lengthy battle with pneumonia, just weeks after making a public appearance on Easter Sunday, cementing his image as a leader dedicated to his mission until the end.

4. Pope Gregory XII – Age: 88 years (c. 1325 – October 18, 1417)

Gregory XII’s papacy coincided with the Western Schism—a period of deep division within the Church.

In a selfless act aimed at restoring unity, he resigned in 1415, making him one of the few popes in history to step down voluntarily.

At the time of his resignation, Gregory XII was around 88 years old, placing him among the oldest popes ever to serve. His decision to abdicate was later mirrored centuries later by Benedict XVI.

5. Pope Clement XII – Age: 87 years and 305 days (April 7, 1652 – February 6, 1740)

Florentine-born Clement XII was elected pope at 78 and reigned for nearly a decade.

Despite suffering from blindness later in life, he continued to guide the Church with determination.

He is credited with commissioning the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome and implementing reforms in ecclesiastical finance. His death at nearly 88 placed him firmly among the oldest popes in Church history.

6. Pope Clement X – Age: 86 years and 9 days (July 13, 1590 – July 22, 1676)

Emilio Altieri ascended to the papacy as Clement X at age 79. His reign lasted just over six years.

Though advanced in age, he remained a stabilizing figure during a complex time in European religious politics. He passed away in 1676 at the age of 86, remembered for his piety and diplomatic acumen.

7. Pope Benedict XVI – Age: 85 years and 318 days (April 16, 1927 – December 31, 2022)

Benedict XVI, born Joseph Ratzinger, was one of the most theologically scholarly popes in modern history.

Elected at age 78 in 2005, he shocked the world in 2013 by becoming the first pope in nearly 600 years to resign. He cited health reasons and lived in quiet retirement until his death at age 95. At the time of his resignation, he was 85 years and 318 days old.

8. Pope Pius IX – Age: 85 years and 107 days (May 13, 1792 – February 7, 1878)

Pius IX served as pope for over 31 years, the longest verifiable reign in papal history.

His tenure included the proclamation of the Immaculate Conception and the convening of the First Vatican Council, which defined papal infallibility. He died in 1878 at the age of 85 years and 107 days.

9. Pope Innocent XII – Age: 85 years and 107 days (March 13, 1615 – September 27, 1700)

Antonio Pignatelli, later Innocent XII, is known for his strong opposition to nepotism within the Church. Elected in 1691, his nearly decade-long papacy focused on ecclesiastical reform and simplicity.

He passed away in 1700, at the age of 85 years and 107 days, after earning the respect of both clergy and laity for his integrity.

10. Pope Lucius III – Age: 85 years (1097 – 1185)

Ubaldo Allucingoli, who became Pope Lucius III, was elected at the age of 81. His tenure, from 1181 to 1185, occurred during a period of intense political conflict, particularly with the Holy Roman Empire.

Despite his brief reign of four years, he is remembered for his dedication to the Church in his advanced years.