Quick Facts
Warrior Pope. Commissioned Michelangelo's Sistine and rebuilt St. Peter's.
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Life Journey
Giuliano della Rovere, later Pope Julius II, was born to Rafaello della Rovere and Theodora Manerola in Albissola Marina, Italy.
Giuliano della Rovere begins his education in Perugia, studying theology and canon law, laying the foundation for his future ecclesiastical career.
Giuliano della Rovere is ordained as a priest, marking the beginning of his formal service within the Catholic Church.
Pope Sixtus IV appoints Giuliano della Rovere as Bishop of Carpentras, his first significant ecclesiastical position.
Giuliano della Rovere is elevated to the rank of cardinal by his uncle, Pope Sixtus IV, and assigned the titular church of San Pietro in Vincoli.
Giuliano della Rovere becomes a prominent critic of Pope Innocent VIII, leading to a period of tension and political maneuvering within the Church.
Giuliano della Rovere supports the election of Rodrigo Borgia as Pope Alexander VI, hoping to gain influence, but the relationship soon sours.
Giuliano della Rovere leads a military campaign to defend the Papal States against the invasion of King Charles VIII of France.
Giuliano della Rovere is elected Pope Julius II, succeeding Pope Pius III, and begins his pontificate with a strong focus on reform and military defense.
Pope Julius II commissions Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, a project that would become one of the most iconic works of the Renaissance.
Pope Julius II forms the League of Cambrai, an alliance with France, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire to counter the power of the Venetians.
Pope Julius II excommunicates the Republic of Venice for its refusal to comply with the terms of the League of Cambrai, escalating the conflict.
Pope Julius II establishes the Vatican Museums, beginning with the display of the famous LaocoΓΆn and His Sons statue, enhancing the cultural legacy of the Vatican.
Pope Julius II convenes the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church, including heresy and ecclesiastical reform.
Pope Julius II dies in Rome, leaving a legacy of military leadership, artistic patronage, and significant ecclesiastical reforms.