Nonnosus was a sixth-century monk and Benedictine prior who lived near Rome. A contemporary of Saint Benedict, he served as the prior of the San Silvestre monastery on Monte Soratte before later becoming a monk at Suppentonia. Although he is not recorded in ancient martyrologies, he is recognized as a saint within the Catholic tradition. His historical identity may involve the merging of two distinct figures, and he is also mentioned as a deacon in certain Carinthian legends.
Life and service
Living between approximately 500 and 560 AD, Nonnosus held significant religious roles in central Italy. He initially led the community at Monte Soratte as a prior. Later in his life, he moved to Suppentonia to live as a monk. His life coincided with the era of Saint Benedict, and his legacy remains tied to these monastic locations.
Veneration and relics
The devotion to Nonnosus spread throughout central Italy and developed a strong presence in Bavaria. His relics were historically kept in Freising Cathedral, though they were eventually returned to Monte Soratte in 1661. This movement helped revive his veneration at his former monastery. He is commemorated annually on September 2.