Saint Library
May 25historicalUniversal

Urban I

Saint

Sanctified Life

175230

"Our heart must always be turned to God, even in difficulties."

A third-century Pope whose reign was marked by internal controversy and external persecution. His path involved navigating the schism of Hippolytus while maintaining the unity of the faithful, eventually winning the crown of martyrdom and leaving a legacy of steadfastness in the face of division.

Urban I
Historical Legacy

Historical Journey

Life Locations

Historical Summary (Wikidata)
Pope Urban I (Latin: Urbanus I), also known as Saint Urban (175?–230), was the bishop of Rome from 222 to 23 May 230. He was born in Rome and succeeded Callixtus I, who had been martyred. It was believed for centuries that Urban I was also martyred. However, recent historical discoveries now lead scholars to believe that he died of natural causes.
Canonization: saint

Historical Depiction

Historical depiction of Urban I

Wikimedia Commons Source

Titles & Roles

Catholic priest

Sacred Symbols

Life Journey

175

Born in Rome

Born Urbanus in the imperial city.

222

Papal Election

Succeeds Callixtus I; faces the antipope Hippolytus.

225

Growth

The Church expands significantly during a lull in persecution.

230

Death

Dies in Rome; buried in the Catacombs of Callixtus.