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Pope Nicholas IV

Type Figure Region Italy Time 1227–1292 Also known as Nicholas IV

Pope Nicholas IV (1227–1292), born Girolamo Masci, a Franciscan, was the first Franciscan pope (1288–1292), promoting reform and missions, sending Jo…

Timeline

  1. 1227–1274Ascoli Piceno · MarcheGirolamo Masci was born in the Marche region, joined the Franciscans in his youth, received theological training, held key offices within the order, and gained a reputation for learning and conduct before gradually rising into the upper ranks of the Curia.
  2. 1278–1288Rome · LazioElevated to cardinal in 1278, he took part in curial administration and diplomacy, and after the vacancy following the death of Honorius IV was elected pope on 22 February 1288, becoming the first pope of Franciscan origin.
  3. 1288–1292Rome · LazioDuring his reign Nicholas IV convened a Roman council to coordinate crusade and church reform issues, vigorously promoted overseas missions, and sent the Franciscan John of Montecorvino to China, making him a key figure in the Curia's expansion of its mission network to the Far East.

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