Pope Leo X

Giovanni di Lorenzo de' Medici, later Pope Leo X, was born in Florence, Italy, to the influential Medici family.

At the age of seven, Giovanni entered the Dominican Order, marking the beginning of his religious education.

At the remarkably young age of 13, Giovanni was made a cardinal by his uncle, Pope Innocent VIII.

Giovanni continued his studies in theology and canon law at the University of Pisa, enhancing his knowledge and preparing for his ecclesiastical career.

During the French invasion of Italy, Giovanni and his family were forced into exile, temporarily leaving Florence.

After the death of Charles VIII, Giovanni returned to Rome to take up his duties as a cardinal.

Giovanni was elected Bishop of Bologna, further solidifying his position within the Church hierarchy.

Following the death of Pope Julius II, Giovanni was elected as Pope Leo X, becoming the head of the Catholic Church.

Leo X initiated the sale of indulgences to fund the reconstruction of St. Peter's Basilica, a decision that would later spark controversy.

Leo X oversaw the completion of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, a significant achievement in Renaissance art.

Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church, marking the beginning of the Protestant Reformation and challenging Leo X's policies.

Leo X excommunicated Martin Luther, formalizing the split between the Catholic Church and the nascent Protestant movement.

Leo X issued the papal bull 'Exsurge Domine,' condemning Luther's teachings and solidifying the Church's stance against the Reformation.

Pope Leo X died in Rome, leaving behind a legacy of artistic patronage and a Church deeply affected by the early stages of the Protestant Reformation.