Johann Tetzel (c. 1465 - 1519) German Dominican friar and preacher. He was appointed Inquisitor for Poland and Saxony, later becoming the Grand Commissioner for indulgences in Germany. Tetzel was known for granting indulgences on behalf of the Catholic Church in exchange for money. The main usage of the indulgences sold by Johann Tetzel was to help fund and build the new St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.