Peter's presence in Rome is
indicated in his first letter. The
name "Babylon"
is used here as a cryptic name for the
city of Rome, a
characteristic of writings done during times of
persecution. During Peter's
time (witnessed by his own
martyrdom) and most New
Testament times (witness the
Book of Revelation--classic
persecution literature), Rome
took on the characteristics
of the most outstanding example
of a world power hostile to
God--ancient Babylon.
1 Peter 5:12-13
I write you this briefly through Silvanus ... The
chosen one at Babylon sends you greeting, as
does Mark, my son.