'I told the world Pope Benedict XVI was resigning' - a podcast by BBC World Service

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)

Further episodes of Witness History

Further podcasts by BBC World Service

Website of BBC World Service