Born: 7 January 1502 · Died: 10 April 1585 · Age at death: 83
How old was Gregory XIII when he died?
Gregory XIII died aged 83. He was born on 7 January 1502 and died on 10 April 1585.
Pope who introduced the Gregorian calendar used today
Did you know?He founded several educational institutions in Rome to improve the training of priests during the Counter-Reformation.
Quick facts
Date of birth7 January 1502
Date of death10 April 1585
Age at death83
Cause of deathStroke
NationalityItalian
BirthplaceBologna, Italy
OccupationCatholic priest, transitional deacon
Editor's Take:
Gregory XIII is remembered for a single reform that touches almost every life on earth. The old Julian calendar had drifted about ten days out of step with the seasons, pushing Easter away from its intended date. His experts devised a new leap-year rule, and in 1582 Catholic countries jumped from 4 October to 15 October. Protestant states resisted for decades, and Britain waited until 1752. He also funded colleges and missions across Europe. His papacy was a key moment in the Counter-Reformation.
Key Milestones
1565: Made a cardinal by Pius IV
1572: Elected pope
1582: Introduces the Gregorian calendar
Pope Gregory XIII (Latin: Gregorius XIII, Italian: Gregorio XIII, born Ugo Boncompagni; 7 January 1502 – 10 April 1585) was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 13 May 1572 to his death in April 1585.
