Stephen Hawking's encounters with popes

The Pontifical Academy of Sciences Twitter account has regretted the passing of one of its most prestigious members, Stephen Hawking.

Despite not being a believer, the scientist was part of the institution and participated in meetings organized by the academy, like this one in November 2016.

STEPHEN HAWKING
Physicist
"With James Hartle from the University of California, I worked out what physical conditions the early universe must have, if space time had no boundaries in the past."

On that occasion, he spoke for about 20 minutes to give a generic explanation of his theory. He was also able to greet Pope Francis, although it was not the first time he had visited the Vatican: years before he also met with Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI.

“Your Holiness, it's an honor to meet you.”