Pope Pelagius II

Reign: 579 – 590
Life: 520–590

Life Pelagius was a native of Rome , but probably of Ostrogothic descent, as his father's name was Winigild. Pelagius became Pope Benedict I successor on 26 November 579, without imperial confirmation. Pelagius labored to promote clerical celibacy , and he issued stringent regulations on this matter. During his pontificate, the bishop of Milan , who had broken communion with Rome in the Schism of the Three Chapters , returned to full communion around 581, while other bishops in Northern Italy remained in schism.

During Pope Pelagius II's reign, Emperor Wen of Sui ruled China, Constantina ruled Rome, and Emperor Bidatsu ruled Japan.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Absolute Monarchs: A History of the Papacy by John Julius Norwich

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Pope Pelagius II

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Absolute Monarchs: A History of the Papacy

John Julius Norwich

Norwich's narrative history of the popes, from Saint Peter's successors to the modern Vatican.

Find this book on Amazon

Saints and Sinners: A History of the Popes
Eamon Duffy
A respected Yale survey of papal power, reform, and scandal across two millennia.
Find on Amazon