Baldassare Ravaschieri
Baldassare Ravaschieri was an Italian Catholic priest and a professed member of the Order of Friars Minor. He was known as a noted preacher, confessor, and theologian, and was a friend to Bernardine of Feltre and Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. His beatification was confirmed by Pope Pius XI in 1930.
Key Facts
- ›Baldassare Ravaschieri was born in 1420 to noble parents in the Republic of Genoa.
- ›He entered the Order of Friars Minor and became known as a theologian and zealous confessor.
- ›Ravaschieri served as a preacher alongside Bernardine of Feltre and was a friend of architect Giovanni Antonio Amadeo.
- ›He suffered from gout, which sometimes required him to be carried to Mass.
- ›His relics were transferred to Pavia in 1805.
- ›Pope Pius XI confirmed his beatification on 8 January 1930.

About Baldassare Ravaschieri
Baldassare Ravaschieri, OFM (1420 – 17 October 1492) was an Italian Catholic priest and a professed member of the Order of Friars Minor. He is recognized for his spiritual contributions as a preacher and confessor.
Life and Historical Context
Born in 1420 into a noble family in the Republic of Genoa, Baldassare Ravaschieri's father was Count Cattaneo. His early religious education was guided by his aunts, who were dedicated Franciscan tertiaries. He entered the Order of Friars Minor near his home, where he distinguished himself as a capable theologian and a model religious. Ravaschieri was also noted for his practice of mortification and served in leadership roles within his order, including as superior and vicar provincial.
His theological studies led him to earn a doctorate at Santa Maria del Campo before his ordination as a priest. Despite suffering from gout, which sometimes necessitated him being carried to Mass, Ravaschieri was an active preacher, notably serving alongside Bernardine of Feltre. He also maintained friendships with prominent figures of his time, including the architect Giovanni Antonio Amadeo, and served as the confessor to Veronica of Milan. Historical accounts mention a singular event where he reportedly remained in the snow-covered woods on a winter night without being affected by the cold.
Beatification and Legacy
Baldassare Ravaschieri died on 17 October 1492. The process for his beatification was initiated by the Diocese of Pavia, leading to the recognition of his popular devotion, known as 'cultus.' This recognition culminated in Pope Pius XI confirming his beatification on 8 January 1930. His relics were moved to Pavia in 1805, where they remain a point of veneration.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Baldassare Ravaschieri born?
Baldassare Ravaschieri was born in 1420.
What religious order did Baldassare Ravaschieri belong to?
He was a professed member of the Order of Friars Minor.
What was Baldassare Ravaschieri known for?
He was known as a noted preacher, confessor, and theologian. He also practiced mortifications and served as a superior and vicar provincial for his order.
Who confirmed the beatification of Baldassare Ravaschieri?
His beatification was confirmed by Pope Pius XI on 8 January 1930.
Where are the relics of Baldassare Ravaschieri kept?
His relics were transferred to Pavia in 1805.
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