Antoine de Paule facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Antoine de Paule
Grand Master of the Order of Saint John
In office 10 March 1623 – 9 June 1636
Monarch	King Philip III
Preceded by	Luís Mendes de Vasconcellos
Succeeded by	Giovanni Paolo Lascaris
Personal details
Born	c. 1551 Provence, France
Died	9 June 1636 Malta
Resting place	St. John's Co-Cathedral
Military service
Allegiance	Order of Saint John

Fra' Antoine de Paule (born around 1551 – died June 9, 1636) was an important leader of the Knights Hospitaller. This group is also known as the Order of Malta. He was chosen as their 56th Grand Master on March 10, 1623. He led the Order for thirteen years until he passed away in Malta at the age of 85. People remembered him as a leader who cared for his people and was loved by them.

Who was Antoine de Paule?

Antoine de Paule was born in Provence, France, around 1551. He joined the Knights Hospitaller, a very old and respected group. This Order was known for its military and charitable work. They defended Christian lands and cared for the sick.

Leading the Knights Hospitaller

As Grand Master, Antoine de Paule worked hard to make the Order stronger. He helped them get more money and supplies. This made the Knights Hospitaller more powerful. He also focused on improving their defenses. He strengthened the walls and forts built to protect against attacks. These defenses were important for protecting against the Ottoman Empire.

What Challenges Did He Face?

Even though he was a respected leader, Antoine de Paule had some people who did not like him. Some of his opponents made accusations against him. They sent a letter to Pope Urban VIII claiming he had gained his position unfairly. Antoine de Paule quickly sent a representative to the Vatican. This person helped to clear up the accusations.

His Important Decisions

As Grand Master, Antoine de Paule had many responsibilities. He acted as a judge in disputes. For example, he decided who owned a ship that had been captured and then recaptured. He also made decisions about people who were forced to work on ships. He appointed leaders to different positions within the Order. These tasks showed his role in managing the Order's daily life.

A Town Named After Him

Antoine de Paule left a lasting mark on Malta. In 1626, he laid the first stone for a new town. This town was later named Paola, Malta, in his honor. It is still a town in Malta today.

See also

In Spanish: Antoine de Paule para niños