pontifex maximus

The Vestal virgins received especial honor, and were appointed by the Pontifex Maximus.

The highest religious officer of the state, the pontifex maximus, was from this time on elected by the Pontifical College.

On the Pope has descended the name of their superior as ‘Pontifex Maximus.’

In his character of Pontifex Maximus he restored pagan temples, and directed that the haruspices should be consulted.

Under the emperors the head of the government eo ipso was also Pontifex Maximus.