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1st Roman Pontiff
St Peter
PETRVS
1st Successor of St Peter · 30–64 · Holy Land · b. Bethsaida, Gaulanitis, Herodian tetrarchy
30
Elected
64
Reign ended
34 years
Length
1st
Century
The Life
Born Simon, son of Jonah. A Jewish peregrinus, free provincial subject of the Roman Empire who was not a Roman citizen. Feast day (Feast of Saints Peter and Paul) 29 June. Apostle of Jesus. According to Catholic tradition, he received the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew ).
The Catholic Church recognizes him as the first bishop of Rome appointed by Jesus and therefore the first pope. Also revered as a saint in Eastern Christianity, with a feast day of 29 June. St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City is named after him.
Portrait: Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons