Saint Ottone Frangipane

Biography

Saint Ottone Frangipane, also known as Oddone, Oto, and Otto, was born in Rome, Italy in 1040. Coming from the noble Frangipane family, he was raised in a privileged upbringing. As he grew older, Ottone felt a strong calling to serve the Church and dedicate his life to the service of God. At a young age, Ottone joined the military and became a knight. He fought valiantly in defense of the Pope in the area of Frascati, Italy. Sadly, during one particular battle, Ottone was captured by the enemy and imprisoned in a tower. It was during this time of confinement that he turned to prayer and sought the intercession of Saint Leonard of Noblac. Through his fervent prayers, Ottone received a miraculous assistance and managed to escape from his captors. Grateful for this divine intervention, Ottone embarked on a pilgrimage to the Benedictine abbey of Saints Trinity of Cava dei Tirreni. Although he did not become a monk, he decided to live at the abbey, devoting his days to prayer and work. Seeking further spiritual guidance and knowledge, he later moved to the monastery of Montevergine, where he became a disciple of Saint William of Vercelli. In 1117, Ottone settled in Ariano Irpino, Italy. Recognizing the need to care for the many pilgrims passing through the city on their way to the Holy Lands, he dedicated himself to their well-being. Ottone selflessly provided for their needs, offering shelter, food, and spiritual guidance. His devotion to serve others and his reputation for holiness, wisdom, and miracles soon spread throughout the region, attracting many who sought to learn from him. In 1120, Ottone decided to live as a hermit near Ariano Irpino. He constructed a humble cell and even dug a grave adjacent to it as a constant reminder of the transient nature of life and the imminent reality of death. Despite leading a solitary life, Ottone continued to tirelessly serve the people who sought his guidance and assistance. Throughout his life, Ottone was known for his asceticism and strict discipline. He would often scourge himself as a form of penance and relied solely on the bare essentials for material needs. His portrayal often includes a scourge, a sword symbolizing his knightly past, and a simple tunic. Saint Ottone Frangipane passed away at the age of 87 on 23 March 1127, in Ariano Irpino, Italy. He died of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and selflessness. Ottone was buried in the cathedral of Ariano Irpino, where his tomb became a site of veneration and pilgrimage for the faithful. During a siege of Ariano Irpino by Saracens, the locals fervently prayed for Ottone's intercession. In a miraculous turn of events, a shower of stones fell from the clouds, driving away the besiegers. Recognizing his continued protection even after death, Ottone's relics were later transferred to Benevento, Italy in 1220 ahead of an impending Saracen invasion. Today, some relics remain at the church of Saint Peter in Montemiletto, Italy. Saint Ottone Frangipane is revered as the patron saint of Ariano Irpino, Italy, and the city of Ariano Irpino-Lacedonia, Italy. Additionally, he is the patron saint of the diocese of Castelbottaccio, Italy. His feast day is celebrated on 23 March, commemorating the day of his death and eternal union with God.