Pope Benedict XI (1240 – 7 July 1304), born Nicola Boccasini, was Pope from 22 October 1303 to his death.
Benedict held a hostility with Philip IV of France's councillor and secret Assassin Mentor, Guillaume de Nogaret, whom he excommunicated shortly after becoming Pope. In 1304, only eight months into his papacy, Benedict died in Perugia after being poisoned by de Nogaret, and the position of Pope was passed on to Clement V.