How long was Jorge Mario Bergoglio Pope, and who served the longest pontificate?

Born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected Pope on March 13, 2013, in the fifth round of voting on the second day of the conclave, succeeding Benedict XVI.

How long was Pope Francis in office?

At the time of his election, Bergoglio, who chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, was 76 years old. He remained in the role for 12 years, 1 months, and 8 days until his passing.

This tenure is relatively short compared to other Popes. The longest-serving Pontiff was Pius IX, who held the position for 31 years, 7 months, and 22 days. Another long-serving Pope, John Paul II, remained in office for 26 years, 5 months, and 18 days.

Popes with the longest reigns

Pius IX: 31 years, 7 months, 22 days

John Paul II: 26 years, 5 months, 18 days

Leo XIII: 25 years, 5 months, 1 day

Pius VI: 24 years, 6 months, 15 days

Adrian I: 23 years, 10 months, 25 days

Pius VII: 23 years, 5 months, 7 days

Francis: 11 years, 11 months, 14 days (as of March 17)

Additionally, Francis was the 266th Pope in a long succession that began with St. Peter, recognized as the first Bishop of Rome. According to both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, Peter took office in the year 30.