Alberto Calvi da Cilavegna was a 13th-century Catholic bishop and legal expert who served the papacy. Born in Cilavegna between 1170 and 1180, he studied law in Bologna before moving to Rome to work as a decretist for Pope Honorius III. After serving as a canon in Novara, he became the bishop of Savona in 1221. His tenure in Savona was marked by significant architectural restorations, though political conflicts eventually forced him to return to his role in Novara, where he died in 1230.
Life and career
After completing his legal studies in Bologna, Alberto served the papal court in Rome. He later returned to Novara to assist the local bishop as a canon. In 1221, he assumed leadership of the Savona diocese, where he oversaw the restoration of several religious structures, including the baptistery and bell tower. Following intense political unrest in Savona involving Genoese conflicts, he relocated back to Novara, where he served as a canon until his death.
Veneration
He is recognized as a blessed in the Catholic tradition. His remains are kept in the Church of Santa Maria in his birthplace, Cilavegna. In 2012, a dedicated altar was established in honor of the blessed, and a statue wearing episcopal vestments was created to protect his relics.