Reigned from October 13, 1534 to November 10, 1549. Born on February 29, 1468 as Alessandro Farnese in Rome or Canino, Italy (records vary); died on November 10, 1549 in Rome, Italy. A cardinal-deacon and member of a famous family, he was proficient in the learning of the Renaissance, the recipient of many benefices, and a diplomat. During his pontificate, which saw the complete restoration of Catholic faith and piety, he reformed the Apostolic Camera, the tribunal of the Rota, the Penitentiaria, and the Chancery; convened the Council of Trent, 1545, favored the newly-established orders of Capuchins, Barnabites, Theatines, Jesuits, Ursulines, etc., built the Pauline chapel, and sponsored Michelangelo's work in the Sistine chapel.