Birth and youth
St. Peter, also known as Peter the Apostle or Simon Peter, is one of the most significant figures in Christianity. Born with the name Simon in Bethsaida, a fishing town on Lake Tiberias, his life and ministry left an indelible mark on the history of the Christian Church. Peter met Jesus through his brother Andrew, who took him in and gave him the name Cephas, which means "stone" in Aramaic and translates to "Peter" in Greek: this name would reflect Peter's role as the foundation of the Church.
Ministry and martyrdom
Peter was one of Jesus' closest disciples. He witnessed many miracles and was distinguished by his impulsiveness and zeal, characteristics that emerge clearly in the Gospel accounts. Peter went to Rome, where he led the local Christian community, and during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Nero he was arrested and sentenced to death. According to tradition, he was crucified upside down on June 29, 67 AD, deeming himself unworthy to die in the same position as Jesus. The Solemnity of Saint Peter, as well as Saint Paul, is a liturgical feast honoring the martyrdom in Rome of the two apostles and is observed on June 29.
Peter is venerated as the first pope of the Catholic Church, a symbol of apostolic unity and continuity. His relics are enshrined in St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, one of the holiest sites in Christendom. His example of faith, humility and dedication continues to inspire millions of faithful around the world.
Iconography
St. Peter is generally depicted as an old man with white hair and beard, indicating his wisdom and advanced age at the time of his death. He usually wears a tunic and cloak, often in the colors blue and yellow or gold, which are colors associated with his apostolic dignity. One of the most distinctive symbols of St. Peter is the keys and they symbolize the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.
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