Columba of Rieti was a 15th-century Italian Dominican tertiary and mystic born in Rieti. Known for her intense spiritual devotion and frequent ecstasies, she dedicated her life to prayer and service to the poor. After fleeing an arranged marriage by cutting her hair, she eventually moved to Perugia, where she served as a prioress for eleven years. Her extreme fasting and ascetic practices, which were viewed as signs of piety during her era, eventually led to her death at the age of 34.
Life and devotion
Born Angelella Guardagnoli, she took the name Columba, meaning dove. She joined the Third Order of St. Dominic at age 19. As a mystic, she was frequently sought after for spiritual guidance. During her time in Perugia, she worked extensively with the impoverished, an activity that reportedly drew the ire of Lucrezia Borgia, though she remained highly respected by Pope Alexander VI.
Veneration
The Catholic Church beatified Columba in 1625 through Pope Urban VIII. She is remembered for her miraculous reputation and her deep devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Within the Dominican Order, her memory is honored annually on May 20, the date of her passing in Perugia.