Benignus of Malcesine

Who they were

Benigno probably lived in the 8th-9th century together with his companion Caro in caves on Monte Baldo above Lake Garda, following a hermit's life of prayer, penance and work traditionally linked to the Rule of St Augustine. Villagers came to them for counsel and spiritual comfort, and tradition credits the pair with helping translate the relics of St Zeno into Verona's new basilica around 807, though this is not confirmed by contemporary sources.

After their deaths they were buried with honour beneath the high altar of Malcesine's parish church, and their veneration, unbroken since, continues today with a feast on 26 July and an annual pilgrimage to their hermitage on Monte Baldo.

The miracles

There was never a formal cause: he has been honoured as a saint since before the Church's formal processes began.

Why that counted as sanctity

Hermit of Monte Baldo above Lake Garda, venerated with his companion Caro as patron of Malcesine; feast 26 July.