Pope Pius III

Pope Pius III (Pius Tertius; 29 May 1439 – 18 October 1503), born Franchesco Todeschini and also known as Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini, was an Italian priest of the Roman Catholic Church and the 216th Pope from 22 September to 18 October 1503.

Early life
Francesco Todeschini was born in Siena. He was the nephew of Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini, who would become Pope Pius II. He was allowed by uncle to take his mother's maiden name of Piccolomini. His studies in law at the University of Perugia led to a doctorate degree.

Bishop
In 1460, Pius II appointed Todeschini to be Bishop of Siena.

Cardinal
Todeschini was named Cardinal of St. Eustachio in 1460. He was sent on diplomatic missions by Pope Paul II, Pope Sixtus IV and Pope Alexander VI.

Pope
Cardinal Piccolomini was elected pope on September 22, 1503, His choice of name honors his uncle Pius II.

This pope's reign lasted less than a month.

Related pages

 * List of popes
 * List of popes by length of reign

Other websites

 * Catholic Hierarchy, Pope Pius III
 * Cardinals of the Holy Roman Church, Cardinal Piccolomini
 * "The Piccolomini Library"
 * "The Piccolomini Library"