Pope Julius II

Born: December 5, 1443, Albisola Superiore Died: February 21, 1513, Rome

Born Giuliano della Rovere, he was Pope from 1503 to 1513. Known as the "Warrior Pope" or "Fearsome Pope," he dominated the High Renaissance in Rome. He commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and Raphael to decorate the Vatican stanze. He also initiated the reconstruction of St. Peter's Basilica under Bramante.

Patronage

Julius II was the most important patron of the High Renaissance, commissioning major works from Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bramante.