Franca Visalta
Franca Visalta, also known as Franca of Piacenza, was a Cistercian abbess and Catholic saint. She is remembered for her severe austerities, both imposed on herself and initially on her nuns, which led to her isolation and eventual move to a Cistercian convent. She was canonized by Pope Gregory X.
- Century
- 13th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Franca Visalta was born in Piacenza, Italy, around 1170.
- ›She became a Benedictine nun at the age of seven and later abbess.
- ›Due to the severe austerities she imposed, she was removed and isolated.
- ›She moved to a Cistercian convent in Rapallo with one follower, Carentia.
- ›Franca became abbess of a Cistercian house in Montelana and later moved the community to Pittoli.
- ›She died in 1218 and was canonized by Pope Gregory X.
Franca of Piacenza
About Franca Visalta
Franca Visalta (1170–1218), also known as Franca of Piacenza, was an Italian Cistercian abbess and Catholic Saint. Her life is characterized by a deep commitment to severe spiritual austerities and the establishment of religious communities.
Life and Ministry
Born in Piacenza, Italy, Franca entered the Benedictine order at the Convent of St Syrus at the remarkably young age of seven. She rose to the position of abbess while still young. However, her strict approach to religious discipline led to her removal and isolation from the convent, with only one nun, Carentia, sharing her austere views. This led Franca and Carentia to move to a Cistercian convent in Rapallo.
Franca then inspired her parents to fund the establishment of a Cistercian house in Montelana. Both Franca and Carentia joined this new foundation, with Franca again serving as abbess. She continued to practice severe austerities on herself, even as her health deteriorated, and spent many nights in extended prayer. Later in her life, she relocated the Cistercian community to Pittoli, where she passed away in 1218.
Veneration
Franca Visalta was canonised by Pope Gregory X, recognizing her sanctity and the devout life she led. She is venerated within the Catholic Church as a saint, primarily remembered for her unwavering dedication to spiritual discipline and her role in founding and leading Cistercian communities.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Franca Visalta?
Franca Visalta, also known as Franca of Piacenza, was a Cistercian abbess and Catholic saint. She lived from 1170 to 1218.
What is Franca Visalta known for?
She is chiefly remembered for the severe austerities she imposed on herself and initially on her nuns. This led to her isolation and subsequent move to a Cistercian convent where she founded a community.
Where was Franca Visalta from?
Franca Visalta was born in Piacenza, Italy. She established religious communities in Montelana and Pittoli in Italy.
What religious orders was Franca Visalta associated with?
She began her religious life as a Benedictine nun and later became a Cistercian abbess. She also founded a Cistercian house.
When was Franca Visalta canonized?
Franca Visalta was canonized by Pope Gregory X.
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