Illuminato da Rieti was a Catholic priest and an early companion of Francis of Assisi. Born around 1190, he likely hailed from the region near Rieti or Assisi. He participated in the Fifth Crusade alongside Francis, traveling to the court of the Egyptian sultan al-Kamil in 1219. He is notably remembered for being the first individual to observe the stigmata on Francis at La Verna, an event he encouraged the saint to make public.
Life and role
During his time with the Franciscans, Illuminato remained a close associate of the order's founder. Historical accounts, including writings by Bonaventure, describe him as a virtuous and enlightened man. While some scholars debate whether his name was a symbolic designation used by later writers, he is recorded as a significant figure in the early history of the movement, particularly during his years spent in Greccio.
Legacy and memory
His influence persists through literature and religious art. In the Divine Comedy, Dante Alighieri places him in the Heaven of the Sun among mystics and teachers. He is venerated as a saint within the Catholic tradition, with his feast day observed on July 8. Some historical texts suggest he may have served as an informant for early Franciscan biographies.