St. Anselm of Nonantola

Benedictine abbot and duke. He was born in Forum Juhi, modern Friuli, Italy, heir to a local title and brother-in-law of King Aistulf, the Lombard ruler who married Anselm's sister, Gisaltruda. Anselm left his titles and power, and in 750 founded a monastery at Tanano, Italy. Two years later he built the monastery of Nonantola near Modena, Italy. He then went to Rome where Pope Stephen II invested him with the habit of the Benedictine Order. Anselm founded many charitable institutions; however, he lost his patronage when Aistulf died. Desiderius, the new Lombard ruler, banished Anselm from his kingdom in 756. He went to Monte Cassino for seven years, until Desiderius fell to the armies of Charlemagne. Anselm remained in Nonantola until his death. He is patron of the region.