Main content
'I told the world Pope Benedict XVI was resigning'
On 11 February 2013, Benedict XVI became the first pope in nearly 600 years to quit. Journalist Giovanna Chirri got the world exclusive on the story. She speaks to Matt Pintus.
On 11 February 2013, Benedict XVI shocked the world by becoming the first pope in nearly 600 years to quit. All other popes in the modern era had held the position from election until death.
He said he was resigning because of old age. Little known journalist Giovanna Chirri got the world exclusive on the story. She shares her memories of that time with Matt Pintus.
(Photo: Pope Benedict XVI. Credit: Getty Images)
Last on
Sat 11 Feb 202305:50GMT
BBC World Service Australasia
More episodes
Broadcasts
- Fri 10 Feb 202308:50GMTBBC World Service
- Fri 10 Feb 202312:50GMTBBC World Service
- Fri 10 Feb 202318:50GMTBBC World Service except East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa
- Fri 10 Feb 202323:50GMTBBC World Service East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa only
- Sat 11 Feb 202303:50GMTBBC World Service except Australasia
- Sat 11 Feb 202305:50GMTBBC World Service Australasia
Podcast
![]()
Witness History
The story of our times, told by the people who were there

