The legend of medieval Pope Joan persists

In the late Middle Ages, a popular legend advanced the story of a medieval woman who disguised herself in men’s clothing and ascended to the role of pope.

A dramatic ending to the tale ensured its endurance: As the woman, masquerading as Pope Johannes Anglicus, led a religious procession through Rome during the mid-ninth century, she allegedly went into labour, exposing the fact that “Johannes” was actually “Joan. Continue reading

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News category: Odd Spot.

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