Benedict I was the bishop of Rome who served from 575 until his death in 579. Born in Rome to a man named Boniface, he led the Church during a turbulent era characterized by the Lombard expansion across Italy. His reign was marked by significant hardships, including periods of famine affecting Rome and various regions of Byzantine Italy. Because of the military advances by the Lombards, the process of confirming his election by the emperor in Constantinople was delayed for nearly eleven months.
Life and reign
During his pontificate, Benedict addressed the needs of the Church and the city amidst widespread instability. He provided land to the abbot of St. Mark's near Spoleto to resolve property disputes. His administrative work included ordaining numerous clergy, such as fifteen priests and twenty-one bishops. The presence of the Lombards limited the surviving records of his activities outside of Rome, as the conflict disrupted many regional transactions.
Death and burial
Benedict died in Rome on July 30, 579. He was laid to rest in the vestibule of the sacristy at the Old St. Peter's Basilica. He was followed in office by Pelagius II, who was consecrated later that year.