Italy has been the birthplace of the majority of popes throughout history, with a total of 209 popes hailing from the country. This statistic is no surprise considering the strong presence of the Catholic Church in Italy and the significant influence it has had on the country's history and culture.

However, many people may be surprised to learn that the country with the second-highest number of popes is actually France. France has produced a total of 16 popes, making it the second most prolific country in terms of producing leaders of the Catholic Church.

France has a long and complex history with the Catholic Church, with the country being a key player in many important events in Church history. The city of Avignon, in particular, played a significant role in the history of the papacy, as it was the site of the Avignon Papacy from 1309 to 1377. During this time, seven popes resided in Avignon rather than Rome, further solidifying France's connection to the papacy.

Despite Italy's dominance in producing popes, France has still managed to carve out a significant place in the history of the Catholic Church. The country's rich history, strong cultural influence, and deep connections to the Church have all played a role in shaping its role as a key player in the papacy.

It is important to remember that the papacy is a global institution, with leaders coming from a variety of countries throughout history. While Italy may have produced the most popes, countries like France have also made significant contributions to the history and legacy of the Catholic Church.

Overall, the fact that France is the country with the second-highest number of popes serves as a reminder of the diverse and complex history of the Catholic Church and its leaders. It is a testament to the global reach and influence of the Church, as well as the unique roles that different countries have played in shaping its history.

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