Pope Julius II
Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
Born
December 5th, 1443
581 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1513
512 years ago — 69 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Italy
Links & References
One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.
Commissioned Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling
Initiated the construction of St. Peter's Basilica
Led military campaigns in the Italian Wars
Convened the Fifth Lateran Council
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