Artaldus
Artaldus was a 13th-century Carthusian monk and Bishop of Belley who, after a notable period of service in monastic life, was called to episcopal duties in his eighties. He is remembered for founding the Arvières Charterhouse and for his brief but significant tenure as bishop.
- Century
- 13th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Artaldus was born in 1101 in Savoy.
- ›He entered the Carthusian order at Portes Charterhouse.
- ›Artaldus founded the Arvières Charterhouse in 1132.
- ›He was appointed Bishop of Belley at over eighty years old.
- ›Artaldus resigned his bishopric less than two years later and returned to Arvières.
- ›He died in 1206 at the age of 105.
Arthaud
About Artaldus
Artaldus, also known as Arthaud, was a 13th-century Carthusian monk and bishop. Born in 1101 in Savoy, his early life included a brief period at the court of Duke Amadeus III before he pursued a religious vocation.
Early Religious Life and Founding of Arvières Charterhouse
Artaldus entered Portes Charterhouse, where he was ordained a priest. He later undertook the significant task of founding a new charterhouse near a valley known as "the cemetery." After the initial buildings were destroyed by fire, Artaldus relocated the community and established Arvières Charterhouse on the Arvières River in 1132, dedicating it to Our Lady.
Bishop of Belley and Later Life
During his years at Arvière, Artaldus cultivated a reputation for holiness, drawing comparisons to St. Bruno. This renown led to his appointment as Bishop of Belley, a role he accepted when he was over eighty years old. His tenure as bishop was brief, lasting less than two years, after which he resigned and returned to Arvières. He lived the remainder of his days at the charterhouse, dying in 1206 at the age of 105. During his later years, he was visited by Hugh of Lincoln, who had secured King Henry II of England as a benefactor for Arvières.
Veneration
Artaldus's cultus was confirmed in 1834 by Pope Gregory XVI. He is venerated as a confessor and founder within the Catholic Church.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Artaldus born?
Artaldus was born in the castle of Sothonod in Savoy in the year 1101. Much of his childhood is not detailed in historical records.
What was Artaldus's early religious life like?
At the age of eighteen, Artaldus entered the court of Duke Amadeus III but soon left to become a priest. He then entered the Carthusian house of Portes Charterhouse, where he was ordained.
What significant foundation is Artaldus known for?
Artaldus is known for founding the Arvières Charterhouse, dedicated to Our Lady, in 1132. He established this community after the initial buildings were destroyed by fire.
What was Artaldus's experience as a bishop?
Artaldus gained considerable fame and reputation, leading to his appointment as Bishop of Belley in his eighties. However, he resigned less than two years later and returned to Arvières.
When and how did Artaldus die?
Artaldus lived the remainder of his days at Arvières and died in 1206 at the remarkable age of 105. His cultus was officially confirmed in 1834.
Related Saints
Anthelm of Belley
Anthelm of Belley was a prior of the Carthusian Grand Chartreuse and later bishop of Belley. He is remembered for his effective administration at the Grande Chartreuse, where he increased the community's fervor, improved buildings, and standardized the order's rules. As bishop, he was known for his fearless and uncompromising approach to reforming the clergy and regulating diocesan affairs.
Hugh of Lincoln
Hugh of Lincoln, born Hugh of Avalon, was a Burgundian-born Carthusian monk and bishop of Lincoln in England. He is remembered for his exemplary pastoral care, his efforts in rebuilding Lincoln Cathedral, and his role in protecting the Jewish population during periods of persecution.
Bruno of Cologne
Saint Bruno of Cologne was the founder of the Carthusian order, personally establishing its first two communities. A respected teacher and theologian, he also served as chancellor of the Archdiocese of Reims and was a close advisor to his former pupil, Pope Urban II. He is primarily remembered for founding the Carthusians and for his significant contributions to theological teaching and church administration.