Born: 19 May 1611 · Died: 12 August 1689 · Age: 78
Pope known for his opposition to the absolute power of kings
Did you know?He was famous for his personal frugality and lived a very simple life while donating his wealth to the poor.
Quick facts
Date of birth19 May 1611
Date of death12 August 1689
Age at death78
NationalityItalian
BirthplaceComo, Italy
OccupationCatholic priest, Catholic bishop
Editor's Take:
Innocent XI was an austere reformer who restored the shaky finances of the Papal States. He opposed nepotism and refused to enrich his relatives. Much of his reign was spent in conflict with Louis XIV of France over royal control of the Church. At the same time he worked tirelessly to unite Christian rulers against the Ottoman advance. His money and diplomacy helped bring the Polish king Jan Sobieski to Vienna in 1683. The victory there marked a turning point. The following years saw the Ottomans pushed out of Hungary.
Key Milestones
1645: Made a cardinal
1676: Elected pope
1683: Supports the relief of Vienna
1684: Helps form the Holy League
Pope Innocent XI (Latin: Innocentius XI; Italian: Innocenzo XI; 16 May 1611 – 12 August 1689), born Benedetto Odescalchi, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 21 September 1676 until his death on 12 August 1689.
