Papa II

Papa II was a controversial figure in the history of the papacy, identified by some historical accounts as Pope Joan, a legendary female pope said to have reigned for a brief period during the Middle Ages, usually placed between Leo IV (847–855) and Benedict III (855–858).

The existence of Papa II/Pope Joan is disputed by modern historians. The story first appeared in chronicles during the 13th century and gained popularity, particularly during the Protestant Reformation, when it was used in polemics against the Catholic Church.

The traditional story describes Papa II as a woman of English or German origin who disguised herself as a man, rose through the ranks of the church hierarchy due to her intelligence and abilities, and was eventually elected pope. Her sex remained undiscovered until she gave birth during a papal procession, at which point, depending on the version of the story, she either died immediately or was subsequently deposed and died soon after.

The Catholic Church officially denies the existence of Pope Joan. Most modern scholars consider the story to be fictional, arguing that it is based on various historical inaccuracies and possibly satirical tales about the papacy during a period of political instability and moral decline. Explanations for the story's origin include the confusion caused by the papacy's instability in the 9th and 10th centuries, and the existence of strong female figures who wielded significant power in Roman politics during that time. The tale of Papa II is now primarily regarded as a myth, though it remains a noteworthy example of anti-papal sentiment and a curiosity in the history of religion and folklore.