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Urban VII
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The 12-day pope
The 12-day pope Urban VII, detail from a monument by Ambrogio Buonvicino; in the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, Rome.

Urban VII

pope
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Also known as: Giambattista Castagna
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Quick Facts
Original name:
Giambattista Castagna
Born:
August 4, 1521, Rome [Italy]
Died:
September 27, 1590, Rome (aged 69)
Title / Office:
pope (1590-1590)
See all related content

Urban VII (born August 4, 1521, Rome [Italy]—died September 27, 1590, Rome) was the pope, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, from September 15 to September 27, 1590. Of noble birth, he held several key church offices, including papal ambassador to Spain (until 1572), cardinal priest (1583), and inquisitor general (1586). Known for his charity and piety, he was elected pope on September 15, 1590, but died of malaria 12 days later, before his consecration. His reign is the shortest in the church’s history.

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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by René Ostberg.