Pope Benedict XVI resigns

Features and Analysis

• Lasting reputation

  Could Pope Benedict's decision to retire transform his legacy?

• The reluctant Pope?

  Was Pope Benedict XVI a natural church leader?

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• Liberal to conservative?

  How the 1960s changed the future Pope Benedict XVI

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• Profile: Benedict XVI

  A reluctant Pope who took the helm at a stormy time

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• View from St Peter's

  Pilgrims taken aback by Pope's decision to resign

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• In his own words

  Pope Benedict's messages had a strong impact during his papacy

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• On the road

  Pictures of Pope Benedict's travels around the world

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• Benedict the weak?

  One ex-Catholic gives his verdict on the outgoing Pope

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• Vatican country profile

  Key events and facts about the world's smallest independent state

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• Full text of the resignation

  The full text of the announcement

• Pope resigns: Reaction in quotes

  The unexpected announcement that Pope Benedict is to resign at the end of the month causes surprise around the world.