Galdino della Sala
Galdino della Sala was a Roman Catholic saint, cardinal, and Archbishop of Milan from 1166 until his death in 1176. A staunch supporter of Pope Alexander III and Milan in their struggles against Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa, he is also remembered for his charity to the poor and indebted in Milan. He was canonized by Pope Alexander III and is a patron of Lombardy and his former archdiocese.
Key Facts
- ›Born in Milan around 1096 into minor nobility.
- ›Served as Archbishop of Milan from 1166 to 1176.
- ›Was a cardinal elevated in 1165.
- ›A strong supporter of Pope Alexander III against Antipope Victor IV and Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa.
- ›Canonized as a saint by Pope Alexander III.
- ›Died on April 18, 1176, while delivering a sermon.
- Strengthened Support For Pope Alexander Iii During the Papal Schism.
- Re-Established the Authority of the Milanese Church After Expelling Barbarossa.
- Consecrated New Bishops In Several Lombard Cities.
- Known For Charity To the Poor and Imprisoned For Debt.
About Galdino della Sala
Galdino della Sala (c. 1096 – 18 April 1176)
Galdino della Sala, also known as Galdinus or Galdimus, was a significant figure in 12th-century Milan, serving as Archbishop of Milan from 1166 until his death in 1176. Born into minor nobility in Milan around 1096, he rose to prominence as a devoted supporter of the Roman papacy during a tumultuous period of schism.
Life and Historical Context
During the papal schism that erupted in 1159 following the death of Pope Adrian IV, Galdino della Sala took a strong and public stance in favor of Pope Alexander III against Antipope Victor IV, who was backed by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa. As archdeacon of the Milanese church, Galdino's allegiance meant that Milan itself faced the wrath of Barbarossa, who besieged and reduced the city within six months. Galdino remained steadfastly with Alexander III, accompanying him in his exiles to various cities including Genoa, Maguelonne, Montpellier, Clermont, Sicily, and Rome.
In 1165, upon Alexander III's return to Rome, Galdino was elevated to Cardinal Priest of the titular church of Santa Sabina on December 15. A year later, Alexander III appointed him Archbishop of Milan. Subsequently, he was made apostolic legate for Lombardy. After the Lombard League expelled Barbarossa, Galdino took firm control of his archdiocese, deposing priests loyal to Victor IV and consecrating new bishops in numerous Lombard cities such as Lodi, Alba, Cremona, Vercelli, Asti, Turin, Novara, Brescia, and Alessandria.
Sainthood and Legacy
Galdino della Sala is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, having been canonized by Pope Alexander III. He is remembered not only for his political and ecclesiastical leadership in defending the papacy and Milan but also for his profound charity towards the poor and those imprisoned for debt within his city. His liturgical feast day is observed on April 18, the anniversary of his death. He is honored as a patron saint of both Lombardy and his old archdiocese of Milan. Galdino died on April 18, 1176, while delivering a sermon against the Cathars, who were considered heretics by orthodox Catholics.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Galdino della Sala?
Galdino della Sala was a Roman Catholic saint, cardinal, and Archbishop of Milan from 1166 to 1176. He was born in Milan around 1096 into minor nobility.
What was Galdino della Sala's role in the papal schism?
Galdino della Sala was a staunch supporter of Pope Alexander III during the papal schism of 1159. He took a public stand against Antipope Victor IV, who was supported by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa.
What are Galdino della Sala's notable achievements?
He is remembered for his unwavering support of Pope Alexander III and Milan against Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa. He is also known for his charity to the poor and those imprisoned for debt in Milan, and for consecrating new bishops in several Lombard cities after the expulsion of Barbarossa.
When and how did Galdino della Sala die?
Galdino della Sala died on April 18, 1176, in his pulpit. He passed away immediately after completing a sermon he was delivering against the Cathars.
Is Galdino della Sala a saint?
Yes, Galdino della Sala was canonized as a saint by Pope Alexander III during his pontificate. His feast day is celebrated on April 18, particularly in churches following the Ambrosian Rite.
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