1,000-Year-Old Prophecy Claims New Pope Could Be the Last – Here’s Why

For centuries, whispers of an ancient prophecy have stirred both awe and apprehension in religious circles. At the heart of this mystery lies a chilling prediction: the next pope could be the last.

The source of this prophecy is attributed to Saint Malachy, a 12th-century Irish archbishop known for his visions and spiritual gifts. Around the year 1139, Malachy is said to have received a series of divine revelations during a pilgrimage to Rome. From these visions, he compiled a list of 112 cryptic phrases—each one supposedly describing a future pope.

This list, now famously referred to as The Prophecy of the Popes, remained hidden for centuries before resurfacing in 1595, published by Benedictine monk Arnold Wion. Though scholars have debated its authenticity ever since, the final entry on the list remains the most ominous—and most debated—of them all.

The prophecy concludes with an entry about a pope known as “Petrus Romanus,” or Peter the Roman. According to the text, during his reign, “the city of seven hills shall be destroyed, and the dreadful Judge will judge the people.” Many interpret this to mean the fall of Rome and a final reckoning, possibly signaling the end of the Catholic Church—or even the end of the world.

What makes the prophecy especially intriguing now is that the 111th pope on the list, often identified as Pope Francis, is currently in declining health. While there is no official confirmation of his imminent departure, the growing speculation about who might follow him has stirred renewed interest in Malachy’s prediction.

According to the list, there are no entries after Peter the Roman. That silence has led many to believe that whoever holds the office next will be the Church’s final pontiff.

The identity of Peter the Roman remains a mystery. Some believe the name is symbolic, representing a return to the roots of the Church, as Saint Peter was the first bishop of Rome and considered the first pope. Others speculate it may be more literal, suggesting the next pope may have a direct connection to the name Peter or to the city of Rome itself.

Interestingly, among the cardinals rumored to be possible successors, a few have names or backgrounds that align with the prophecy. While none are named Peter outright, several were born in Italy or have held roles directly tied to the Vatican. Supporters of the prophecy argue that the “Roman” part may refer to cultural or institutional ties, rather than birthplace.

Still, critics of the prophecy point to the vague nature of many of the entries. Scholars argue that descriptions prior to 1590 seem strangely accurate—perhaps because they were written after the fact—but that those after that point become increasingly general, open to multiple interpretations. That ambiguity has allowed the prophecy to remain relevant across centuries, despite the lack of concrete evidence.

Nevertheless, it’s difficult to ignore the allure of such a mysterious document. At times of great uncertainty—when the world feels unsteady and institutions appear fragile—people naturally look to ancient wisdom for guidance. Prophecies like Malachy’s provide a narrative, a framework to understand the unfolding events that often feel chaotic and inexplicable.

For the Catholic Church, the idea of the “last pope” is more than a historical curiosity. It raises questions about the future of the institution in an increasingly secular and globalized world. Will the Church continue as it has for millennia, or is it on the brink of a transformational era? Could “Peter the Roman” signal a reformation, a collapse, or perhaps a spiritual awakening?

While there’s no way to confirm the prophecy’s truth, its impact is undeniable. It has inspired books, documentaries, and countless discussions in theological circles. And as the world watches for signs of a new pope, eyes inevitably turn back to Malachy’s final, chilling words.

Will the next pope truly be the last?

For now, we wait—with reverence, curiosity, and just a touch of ancient fear.