POPE
Pope Joan
Pope, Bishop of Rome
Pope Joan, who reigned as Roman Pontiff from 855–858.
background
Pope Joan was a woman who purportedly reigned as popess for two years during the Middle Ages. Her story first appeared in chronicles in the 13th century and subsequently spread throughout Europe. The story was widely believed for centuries, but most modern scholars regard it as fictional.
summary
Pope Joan, who reigned as Roman Pontiff from 855–858.
papacy Start
855
papacy End
858

