His name as pope is just Benedict XVI. Popes do not have last names when they become pope.
Popes do not choose a surname when elected to the papacy. Before elected, though, Benedict XVI's name was Joseph Ratzinger.
Pope Benedict was born Josef Alois Ratzinger.
He was named Josef Alois Ratzinger at birth.
He was born Josef Alois Ratzinger.
His title was Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and, as well, Dean of the College of Cardinals.
Joseph Alois Ratzinger.
Joseph Alois Ratzinger.
Pope Benedict XVI, who is now retired, was named Joseph Alois Ratzinger.
He was named Josef Alois Ratzinger at birth.
Joseph Alois Ratzinger was the third and youngest child of Joseph Ratzinger, Sr., a police officer, and Maria Ratzinger (née Peintner).
Joseph Alois Ratzinger
April 19, 2005.