The Borgias became prominent in ecclesiastical and political affairs in the 15th and 16th centuries , producing two popes : Alfons de Borja , who ruled as Pope Callixtus III during 1455 -- 1458 , and Rodrigo Lanzol Borgia , as Pope Alexander VI , during 1492 -- 1503 .
The Borgias became influential in religion and politics in the 15th and 16th centuries . Two popes came from this family during this time : Alfons de Borja who ruled as Pope Callixtus III during 1455 -- 1458 and Rodrigo Lanzol Borgia , as Pope Alexander VI , during 1492 -- 1503 .