Pope Sixtus V

Roman Catholic Pope. He served as head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1585 to 1590. A tireless worker, best remembered for completing the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, building the Vatican Library and for erecting a series of obelisks in key places throughout Rome including St. Peter's Square. He was one of the great figures of the Counter Reformation. Born Felice Peretti in 1520 into a poor family in Grottammare, Italy, at age 12 he entered the Franciscan order, receiving a Doctor Degree in Theology in 1548. After his ordination in 1547 he became an extraordinary preacher. Later, after being brought to Rome, he was created a Cardinal in 1570. He became Pope Sixtus V on April 24, 1585. Because of his poor health he was expected to have little impact on the Papacy. Contrary to that opinion, Sixtus V in five years as Pope left a great mark of his strong will and self esteem. He set about bringing order to the Papal States and his methods, if violent, were successful. He also spent a vast amount of money on the city of Rome, rebuilding countless churches, beautifying streets, erecting new buildings and monuments.