Definition: The Pontifex Maximus was the highest pontifex or priest in ancient Rome -- like the modern Pope. Also like the Pope, once in office, the appointee held his position for life.
Pontifex may come from the Latin words for bridge (pons) + maker (from facio).
The Pontifex Maximus chose the Vestal Virgins, the flamines, and the rex sacrorum. He presided at the assembly that confirmed adoptions -- like the one of Clodius Pulcher into a plebeian family. He was, in some sense, the heir of the king (rex) and had to be a patrician for the first few centuries of the Roman Republic. The office-holder had power, but was restricted in his behavior by taboos.
The title of Pontifex Maximus became one of those held by the Roman emperor.
Examples:
Generally, the office was awarded to an aged statesman, but a young Julius Caesar won the office of pontifex maximus in 63 B.C.The Pope is often referred to as the Pontifex Maximus.
