The answer is no, there is no historical evidence to support the claim of a female pope.
The legend of Pope Joan, a woman who supposedly reigned as Pope John VIII in the 9th century, is a popular myth that has been widely debunked by historians. This story first appeared in the 13th century and was likely a fabrication to discredit the papacy.
Here's why the story of Pope Joan is considered a myth:
- Lack of Contemporary Evidence: There are no contemporary records or accounts from the 9th century that mention a female pope. The earliest mention of Pope Joan appears centuries after the supposed event.
- Historical Discrepancies: The story of Pope Joan contains numerous inconsistencies and inaccuracies. The timeline of her reign doesn't align with the known history of the papacy during that period.
- Sceptical Views of Early Historians: Even in the 13th and 14th centuries, some historians doubted the authenticity of the story. They argued that it was a fabrication used to undermine the authority of the papacy.
While the legend of Pope Joan is captivating, it's important to remember that it's a myth without any factual basis.
