Ottone Frangipane

Ottone Frangipane was born around 1040, likely in Rome, into the noble Frangipani family. As a young knight, he fought in defense of the Pope near Frascati, but was captured and chained in a tower. In his helplessness he prayed for the intercession of Saint Leonard of Limoges, and was miraculously freed—an event that turned his heart from worldly power toward God. He made pilgrimage to the Abbey of Cava de’ Tirreni, embraced the Rule of Saint Benedict with prayer and humble labor, and later at Montevergine deepened his love for ascetic life, influenced by Saint William of Vercelli. Around 1117 he arrived in Ariano Irpino, a crossroads for pilgrims bound for the Holy Land. With fatherly charity he cared for travelers and founded the hospital of San Giacomo. Seeking still greater union with Christ, he withdrew as a hermit near the church now called San Pietro dei Reclusi, living in penance, fasting, and vigil. His holiness drew many, and his intercession was long credited with protection in times of siege and plague. He is patron of Ariano Irpino, Castelbottaccio, and the Diocese of Ariano Irpino-Lacedonia. His feast day is March 23.