# Benedict XVI resigns (2013)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/2013-benedict-xvi-resigns
Location: Vatican City
Themes: Papacy

The first papal resignation since 1415. At this point in the timeline (28 February 2013), the Bishop of Rome was Pope Benedict XVI (19 April 2005 – 28 February 2013).

## Why it matters
Benedict XVI resigns mattered because it shaped the authority, policy or public role of the papacy and the Catholic Church.

Pope at the time: [Pope Francis](https://christianity-history.com/popes/pope-francis)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Resignation of Pope Benedict XVI](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resignation_of_Pope_Benedict_XVI)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Benedict XVI resigns](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Benedict+XVI+resigns)
- [Wikipedia — Modern Era (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_the_20th_century)