Martin Luther received his Doctor of Theology degree at the University of Wittenberg, credentials that would soon underpin his challenge to papal authority.

Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel opened to public view, revealing scenes from Genesis painted across nearly 12,000 square feet.

Michelangelo's frescoed ceiling of the Sistine Chapel was unveiled to the public, revealing four years of solitary, backbreaking labor.