Former Pope Benedict XVI has died at the age of 95, almost ten years after he stood down due to ailing health.
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| Former Pope Benedict XVI. Photo: AP via skynews |
He died at his Vatican residence.
Since Gregory XII in 1415, he became the first Pope to resign, in 2013. He led the Catholic Church for less than eight years.
The Mater Ecclesiae monastery within the walls of the Vatican, was where Benedict spent his final years.
Pope Francis, Benedict’s successor, said, he has paid him several visits there.
In a statement, the Vatican said, “With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.
“Further information will be provided as soon as possible.”
Funeral plans for Pope Benedict will be announced very soon, the Vatican said.
