Pornocracy is a term that has been used to mean government by or domination of government by prostitutes.

Historically, 'pornocracy' refers to a period of papacy in the early tenth century, beginning with Pope Sergius III from 904 and ending with the death of Pope John XII in 963. During this period, the popes were under the influence of corrupt women (though not necessarily prostitutes), especially Theodora and her daughter, Marozia. This period is also called the Rule of the Harlots.

It is popularly believed that Marozia was the concubine of Pope Sergius III and the mother of Pope John XI. She was also accused of having had Pope John X murdered (who had originally been nominated for office by Theodora) in order to secure the election of her current favourite, Pope Leo VI.

Theodora and Marozia undoubtedly held great sway over the popes during this time. In particular, as political rulers of Rome they had effective control over the election of new popes. However, it is debatable whether all of the allegations that have been made against them can be substantiated. Much of the evidence for the time comes from the histories of Liutprand, bishop of Cremona. Liutprand took part in the Assembly of Bishops which deposed Pope John XII and was a political enemy of Rome; he is described by the Catholic Encyclopedia as "ever a strong partisan and frequently unfair towards his adversaries." The worst excesses of the time might be considered no more than ecclesiastic gossip.

List of popes during the pornocracy

• Pope Sergius III (904–911), alleged lover of Marozia
• Pope Anastasius III (911–913)
• Pope Lando (913–914)
• Pope John X (914–928), allegedly killed by Marozia
• Pope Leo VI (928–928)
• Pope Stephen VIII (928–931)
• Pope John XI (931–935), son of Marozia, alleged son of Pope Sergius III
• Pope Leo VII (936–939)
• Pope Stephen IX (939–942)
• Pope Marinus II (942–946)
• Pope Agapetus II (946–955)
• Pope John XII (955–963)

References

• Church and Society in a Crisis Age: Tenth and Eleventh Century Europe by Harlie Kay Gallatin. Online
• The Catholic Encyclopedia entry on Liutprand of Cremona