Papa Inocencio XI

Pope Innocent XI, born in 1611 as Benedetto Odescalchi, was the head of the Catholic Church from 1676 until his death in 1689. He is known for his efforts to reform the Church and combat corruption, as well as for his opposition to the influence of the French monarchy over papal authority. Innocent XI was instrumental in the promotion of the Stations of the Cross as a form of devotion, recognizing the need for believers to engage spiritually with the suffering of Christ.