Pope Julius II

Europe

Pope Julius II commissions Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Over four years, lying on his back on scaffolding, Michelangelo creates one of h…

• 1508 CE

  Michelangelo paints the Sistine Chapel

  Pope Julius II commissions Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Over four years, lying on his back on scaffolding, Michelangelo creates one of humanity's greatest artworks—a synthesis of Classical form and Christian narrative that defines the High Renaissance.