Bartolomeo Cerveri

Bartolomeo Cerveri, OP (1420 – April 21, 1466) was an Italian Catholic priest and a member of the Order of Preachers, known for his service as an inquisitor. He was born in Cuneo and displayed remarkable piety from a young age.

Life and Historical Context

After pursuing theological studies in Savigliano and Turin, Bartolomeo Cerveri entered the Dominican Order. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1445. A significant academic milestone in his life occurred on May 8, 1452, when he received his licentiate, master's, and doctorate degrees from the University of Turin, an unprecedented triple achievement. He taught at the university until 1453, after which he was elected prior of the Dominican convent in Savigliano.

Ministry as Inquisitor

Cerveri's dedication to converting heretics led to his appointment as an inquisitor for Piedmont and Liguria in 1451. His role placed him in a dangerous position, as being a Dominican in that region at that time meant he was a target for the hatred of heretics. He was aware of the threats against his life.

Death and Beatification

Bartolomeo Cerveri met his end on April 21, 1466, in Cervere. Before embarking on his final journey with two companions, Giovanni and Gianpietro Riccardi, he made his confession and declared, "I go there as an inquisitor and there I must die." He and his companions were attacked; while his companions were wounded, Cerveri was killed by multiple dagger wounds. Accounts from those who washed his remains noted a surprising lack of bleeding despite the severity of his wounds. His remains were later relocated in 1802. Due to the local veneration he received, Pope Pius IX officially confirmed his beatification on September 22, 1853.