The classification of Popes, according to the duration of their pontificates is as follows:

1. St. Peter (30 to 64/67 AD): 34 or 37 years, of which, according to tradition, he spent 25 in Rome.

2. Pius IX (1846-1878): 31 years and 7 months.

3. Leo XIII (1878-1903): 25 years and 5 months.

4. John Paul II (1978 - ): 25 years on 16 October 2003

5. Pius VI (1775-1799): 24 years and 6 months.

6. Adrian I (772-795): 23 years and 10 months.

7. Pius VII (1800-1823): 23 years and 5 months.

8. Alexander III (1159-1181): 21 years, 11 months, and 23 days.

9. St. Sylvester I (314-335): 21 years and 11 months.

10. St. Leo I (440-461): 21 years and 1 month.

(as of 6 August 2002)

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