At the age of 85 years and 318 days on the effective date of his retirement , he was the fourth - oldest person to hold the office of pope .
Benedict announced in February 2013 that , due to his advanced age , he would step down .
At the age of 85 years and 318 days on the effective date of Benedict 's retirement , Benedict was the fourth - Benedict person to hold the office of pope .
Benedict announced in February 2013 that , due to his advanced age , he would step down .