Saint Pierre

Saint Pierre, originally from Bethsaida in Galilee, is revered as the prince of the apostles in Christian tradition. According to the Catholic faith, he was appointed by Jesus Christ to lead his Church and is considered the first pope among the 266 popes that have succeeded him throughout history. Although he played a pivotal role in establishing the early Christian community, the title 'pope' was not used during his lifetime; it only emerged in the third century as a term of endearment for church leaders. Peter's influence on the development of the papacy can be seen as a gradual evolution that culminated in the establishment of the papal monarchy in the Middle Ages. He is believed to have been martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero around the 60s AD.