Pope John Paul II was one of the most beloved Popes in recent memory. Tragically, his passing has left the world with only their memory to rely upon. Thankfully, we’re here for you. Here are 10 Pope John Paul II facts you never knew:
Inspirational Facts about Pope John Paul II
1 Two million people were present in the Vatican City for Pope John Paul II’s funeral, one of the largest recorded funerals in history.
2 In 2003, the Vatican confirmed that he’d been suffering from Parkinson’s disease since the early 1990s. He died two years later due to complications from flu.
3 A staunch opponent of communism, many believe his rise to the papacy spelt the beginning of the Soviet Union’s demise.
4 His birthplace Wadowice is only a few miles away from the infamously deadly Auschwitz Nazi concentration camp.
5 He was 58-years-old when elected Pope, making him the youngest elected Pope in 132 years at the time.
6 He was the only surviving member of his family by 1941; he was only 21-years-old.
7 His birth name was Karol Jozef Wojtyla.
Related: Fascinating facts about the Catholic Church
8 He was first ordained a priest in 1946.
9 At the time of his election, he was the first non-Italian Pope since the 16th century.
10 Pope John Paul II was the most well traveled Pope of all time; his first ever visit was to Assisi.
11 A Turkish man attempted to assassinate Pope John Paul II in 1981, firing at least four bullets at him. Doctors worked on him for five and a half hours, though he would emerge just fine. John Paul II famously visited his assailant later while he was in prison, and the two prayed together.
Video: Saint John Paul II, the Life of a Holy Pope
What made John Paul II a saint? Was it because of his apostolic success, his impressive figure or his untiring travels? No doubt, all this is important, but it isn’t enough. John Paul the II has been recognized a saint for a different reason… Now, allow us to answer with this entertaining animation.
Also see fascinating bible facts that most people don’t know
I’m Natalie Garcia and I started this website to share my love of trivia, facts and fun knowledge tidbits. We cover things like celebrity gossip, historical facts, tv shows, world leaders and just odd and random fun things. I started this site to have some fun with my hobby and share some useful information with you, our community. Please feel to send me your suggestions and feedback through the contact form. And if you have suggestions for things to write about, please shoot me a message!