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Feast Day: March 20
Death: January 1, 1411
Blessed Daniel of Ungrispach, also known as Daniele, was born in 1344 at the Ungrispach castle in the duchy of Carinthia, which is now the Cormons region of Italy. He was born into a noble Carinthian family and grew up in a life of privilege. As he reached adulthood, Daniel ventured into the world of trade and became a wealthy fabric merchant.
In his personal life, Daniel married a woman named Orsina Ricchieri, with whom he had a daughter named Lucia. However, amidst his worldly success, Daniel sought a higher purpose in life. He longed for a deeper connection with God and dedicated himself to leading a spiritual and charitable existence.
While traveling through the area of Venice, Italy, Daniel came across the San Mattia monastery located in the Murano neighborhood. It was here that he encountered the Camaldolese monks, a group of spiritual individuals who lived a life of contemplation and solitude. Blown away by their devotion and spirituality, Daniel developed a close friendship with the monks and decided to become a Cistercian oblate associated with the San Mattia monastery.
For over 20 years, Daniel resided near the monastery, continuing his successful business pursuits while devoting his off time to his spiritual life. Despite his involvement in worldly circles and his role as a judge serving in civil offices, Daniel remained committed to his spiritual journey.
Throughout his life, Blessed Daniel of Ungrispach was known for his deep faith, spiritual wisdom, and acts of charity. His reputation as a devout and upright man extended beyond the religious community, leaving a lasting impression on those who encountered him.
Tragically, in 1411, Blessed Daniel's life was cut short when he was strangled to death in his sleep near the San Mattia monastery. His body was discovered the following year and found to be incorrupt, a sign of his sanctity. According to legend, when his tomb was opened, the entire Murano area was filled with a delightful fragrance of flowers.
In recognition of his holiness, Blessed Daniel's remains were re-interred in a glass coffin in the basilica of Saints Mary and Donatus in Murano, Italy. Though his formal beatification has not been recorded, his life remains an inspiring testament to the pursuit of both worldly and spiritual greatness.