Attala
Attala was a disciple and successor of Columbanus as abbot of Bobbio. Originally from Burgundy, he first joined the abbey of Lérins before moving to Luxeuil and then following Columbanus into exile to found the abbey of Bobbio. He is remembered for his strict monastic discipline and for restoring the binding of books in the monastic library.
- Feast Day
- March 10
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Attala succeeded Columbanus as abbot of Bobbio in 615.
- ›He was originally from Burgundy and was a monk at Lérins and Luxeuil.
- ›Attala followed Columbanus into exile and helped found Bobbio.
- ›He insisted on strict discipline and allowed rebellious monks to leave.
- ›Attala restored the binding of books in the monastic library.
- ›A surviving palimpsest copy of Ulfilas' works is inscribed with his name.
Atala
About Attala
Attala, also known as Atala, was a significant figure in early medieval monasticism, serving as a disciple and later the successor to Saint Columbanus as abbot of the monastery of Bobbio. He died in 622.
Life and Historical Context
Originally from Burgundy, Attala's monastic journey began at the abbey of Lérins. Discontent with the prevailing lax discipline there, he moved to the abbey of Luxeuil, recently established by Columbanus. When Columbanus was expelled from Luxeuil by King Theuderic II, Attala chose to follow him into exile rather than assume the position of abbot. Together, they founded the monastery of Bobbio on the banks of the river Trebbia, northeast of Genoa.
Abbacy and Contributions
Following Columbanus' death in 615, Attala succeeded him as abbot of Bobbio. During his abbacy, he and his monks endured difficulties from King Arioald, an Arian ruler. Attala was known for his insistence on strict monastic discipline. When a large group of monks rebelled against his rigorous standards, he permitted them to leave. According to his biographer, Jonas, the subsequent miserable deaths of some of these monks led the others to return, viewing their fate as divine punishment. Attala also undertook the restoration of the bindings for the books in the monastic library, a testament to his care for the community's intellectual and spiritual resources. A surviving palimpsest of Ulfilas' works bears the inscription "a book from the cupboard of lord Atala," indicating the importance of the Bobbio library.
Veneration
Attala was buried in Bobbio, and his liturgical feast is observed there annually on March 10. He is venerated as a confessor for his steadfast witness to faith and monastic ideals.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Attala?
Attala, also known as Atala, was a disciple of Columbanus and his successor as abbot of the monastery of Bobbio. He was originally from Burgundy and played a key role in the founding of Bobbio.
When did Attala live?
Attala died in 622 and succeeded Columbanus as abbot of Bobbio in 615. His active period falls within the early 7th century.
What is Attala remembered for?
Attala is remembered for his strict adherence to monastic discipline, which he rigorously enforced at Bobbio. He is also noted for his efforts in restoring the binding of books within the monastic library.
What was Attala's relationship with Columbanus?
Attala was a disciple of Columbanus and followed him into exile. After Columbanus' death, Attala succeeded him as the abbot of Bobbio, continuing the work they started together.
Where is Attala venerated?
Attala is venerated in the Catholic Church, with his liturgical feast celebrated on March 10 in Bobbio, where he was buried.
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