Filarete of Calabria was an 11th-century saint born in Palermo around 1020. Coming from a family of Calabrian descent that had been relocated to Sicily, he eventually returned to his ancestral region. He spent much of his life working as a gardener, residing in various locations such as Reggio Calabria and Sinopoli. He eventually settled at the monastery of St. Elias on Mount Aulinas, where he lived for his final twenty-five years before passing away in Palmi in 1070.
Life and work
After returning to Calabria around 1040, Filarete lived in several areas, including Reggio Calabria and Sinopoli. He later moved to the monastery of St. Elias, located on Mount Aulinas. Under the guidance of Orestes, he spent the last quarter of his life at this monastic site, where he continued his vocation as a gardener until his death.
Veneration
Recognized as a saint, he is commemorated in the Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican traditions. His feast day is observed on April 6. He is sometimes referred to as the gardener to distinguish his life and occupation.