Catald was a 7th-century Irish monk and bishop who originally studied at the School of Lismore in County Waterford. After traveling to Jerusalem on a pilgrimage, his return journey was interrupted when his vessel was wrecked near the Italian coast. Settling in the vicinity of Taranto, he eventually accepted leadership of the local church. He is recognized as a saint within the Catholic tradition and is celebrated for his spiritual influence in the region where he died.
Life and ministry
Born in Munster, Catald became a disciple of Carthage at Lismore. Following his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he arrived near Taranto after a shipwreck. The local community invited him to govern their church, leading to his role as a bishop. He is credited with protecting the city from various natural disasters, such as floods and plagues, through his intercession.
Veneration and legacy
His feast day is observed on May 10. The saint is the patron of Taranto and Corato, and he also served as a patron for the Sicilian Normans. Several locations, including the town of San Cataldo, are named in his honor. His relics were preserved within the high altar of the cathedral in Taranto after a gold cross was discovered in his coffin during the eleventh century.