Birthplace
Rome
Pope from
29 March 537
Pope until
7 June 555
Died
7 June 555
Who he was
Vigilius came from a distinguished Roman family; his father held the title of consul. As a deacon he was papal representative at Constantinople. He was made pope in 537 under pressure from Belisarius, after Silverius was deposed, and was recognised by all the Roman clergy once Silverius had died.
What he is remembered for
He upheld the Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon. His reign was taken up by the dispute over the 'Three Chapters', writings the Emperor Justinian wished condemned: he was taken to Constantinople in 545 and held there for eight years, and in the end accepted the decisions of the Second Council of Constantinople (553). He died at Syracuse on his way home to Rome.
Sources
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