Artaldus was a 13th-century Carthusian monk and the Bishop of Belley. Born in 1101 at the castle of Sothonod in Savoy, he initially served in the court of Duke Amadeus III before pursuing a religious life. After being ordained a priest, he helped establish the Arvières Charterhouse in 1132. Although he was appointed to lead the See of Belley in his eighties, he resigned shortly after to return to his monastic community, where he lived until his death in 1206.
Monastic life
After leaving the ducal court, Artaldus joined the Portes Charterhouse. He later led six fellow priests to found a new community in the Valromey region. Following a fire that destroyed their initial buildings, he relocated the group to a site on the Arvières River. This new foundation, dedicated to Our Lady, became the center of his later years and his primary place of residence.
Veneration
Artaldus is recognized as a saint within the Catholic tradition. His reputation for holiness was significant during his lifetime, drawing comparisons to his mentor, St. Bruno. His cultus was officially confirmed by Pope Gregory XVI in 1834, and he is commemorated with a feast day on October 6.