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Feast Day: May 28
Death: January 1, 1451
Blessed Herculaneum of Piegaro, also known as Herculaneum of Pieghèro, Herculaneum of Piagale, Ercolano, Herculan, or Herculanus, was a Franciscan friar minor and a spiritual student of Blessed Albert of Sarteano. Born in the late 14th century in Piegaro, Italy, he dedicated his life to the service of God.
After being ordained as a priest in the early 15th century, Herculaneum became a renowned travelling preacher known for his austerity, long fasts, and as a miracle worker. His reputation spread far and wide, attracting large crowds wherever he went.
During Lent of 1430, while he was preaching in the cathedral of Lucca, Italy, the city came under siege by the army of Florence. Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, Herculaneum bravely rallied the people of Lucca, ensuring their spiritual well-being and offering them comfort during this difficult time. He found ingenious ways to smuggle food into the city, helping the residents survive the siege.
Grateful for his unwavering support, the people of Lucca bestowed upon Herculaneum the Pozzuolo convent as a sign of their gratitude and to ensure his return. This act of generosity further solidified his bond with the community and demonstrated their admiration for him.
In 1435, Herculaneum was sent by the papal legate to preach missions in the East, a task he carried out with great dedication until 1437. His sermons inspired countless individuals to embrace the Catholic faith and led to significant spiritual transformations.
Blessed Herculaneum of Piegaro possessed a deep sense of spirituality and exhibited profound devotion to God. It is said that he lived a life marked by holiness and virtuous acts. His unwavering devotion brought him close to the divine and enabled him to perform miracles that attested to his sanctity.
Following his passing in the summer of 1451 in the convent of Castelnuovo, Garfagnana, Tuscany, Italy, Herculaneum's body was discovered to be incorrupt when exhumed in 1456. This remarkable preservation of his mortal remains confirmed the belief in his sanctity and holiness. To honor his memory, his relics were enshrined in the church of the convent of Castelnuovo, where they continue to be venerated.
Blessed Herculaneum of Piegaro's beatification took place on 29 March 1860, when Pope Pius IX confirmed his cultus. His feast days are celebrated on 28 May, 1 June (on some calendars), and 2 June (on some calendars). His life serves as an inspiration to people of faith, reminding them of the power of prayer, austerity, and unwavering devotion to God.