Ratholdus of Aibling was a 10th-century hermit and member of the wealthy Rapotonen family. Born around 950 near Bad Aibling, he is believed to have traveled to both Rome and Santiago de Compostela. Following these pilgrimages, he reportedly sought solitude in a cave located across from the present-day Georgenberg in the Lower Inn Valley. He lived during the first half of the 10th century and is remembered as a religious figure whose followers eventually established a monastic community in the region.
Life and death
As a member of the Rapotonen lineage, Ratholdus likely originated from the Prantshausen estate. After his travels, he settled as an ascetic near Stans. He is thought to have passed away on the Georgenberg during the latter half of the 10th century, possibly in 954. His lifestyle inspired others to join him, leading to the formation of a community that later became a Benedictine abbey.
Veneration
The community established by his followers was elevated to an abbey in 1138. The site of St. Georgenberg became a major pilgrimage destination in Tyrol. Ratholdus is recognized as blessed, and his feast day is observed on December 16. Pilgrims continue to visit the monastery, which sits on a rocky peak above the confluence of the Georgenbach and Stanser Bach.