Blessed Paul Burali Darezzo

Biography

Blessed Paul Burali d'Arezzo, also known as Paolo Burali Darezzo, was born as Scipione in Itri, in the diocese of Gaeta, Italy in 1511. After completing his studies at the University of Salerno in 1525 and later at the University of Bologna in 1536, he became a renowned civil and canon lawyer in Naples, Italy. Notably, one of his teachers during his time in Bologna was the future Pope Gregory XIII.

In 1549, Burali Darezzo was appointed as a royal counselor to Emperor Charles V, and later served as Auditor General of the army under Ferdinand of Toledo. However, he felt a calling to religious life and joined the Theatines on 25 January 1557, taking the name Paolo. He became a spiritual student of Blessed Giovanni Marinoni and was ordained as a priest on 26 March 1558.

Burali Darezzo's dedication and talents were recognized by the Church, and he was appointed as a papal ambassador to the court of Spain on behalf of Pope Pius IV in 1564. He also served as the superior of the Theatine house in Naples and later in Rome, where he worked closely with Saint Andrew Avellino.

On 23 July 1568, Burali Darezzo was consecrated as the Bishop of Piacenza, Italy. It was during his time as bishop that he implemented the decrees of the Council of Trent, playing a crucial role in ensuring the proper religious education and discipline among the clergy. His efforts were evident in the publication of a catechism for priests in 1577.

Recognizing his outstanding service to the Church, Pope Saint Pius V created Burali Darezzo a cardinal on 15 May 1570. Later, on 19 September 1576, he was appointed as the Archbishop of Naples, Italy. In this role, he continued his tireless efforts in promoting the teachings of the Catholic Church and providing spiritual guidance to the faithful.

Blessed Paul Burali Darezzo passed away on 17 June 1578 at Torre del Greco, located on the side of Mount Vesuvius in the kingdom of Naples, Italy. He died of natural causes and was interred in the crypt of the basilica of Saint Paul Maggiore in Naples. His beatification took place on 8 June 1772 by Pope Clement XIV, recognizing his holiness and the blessings he brought to the Church through his faithful service and dedication to the principles of Catholicism.