Fridianus

Saint Fridianus (Italian: San Frediano, also Frigidanus, Frigidian, Frigianu), was an Irish prince and hermit, fl. 6th century. Tradition names him as a son of King Ultach of Ulster. He later became Bishop of Lucca in Italy. The Basilica of San Frediano in the city is dedicated to him.

Biography

Fridianus is venerated as a Christian saint of the 6th century and as a bishop of Lucca. The Basilica di San Frediano in Lucca is dedicated to him.

Tradition makes him a prince of Ireland who became a hermit on Mount Pisano, near Lucca, after going on pilgrimage to Rome. The Catholic Encyclopedia states: “Remarkable for sanctity and miracles was St. Fridianus (560-88), son of Ultonius, King of Ireland, or perhaps of a king of Ulster (Ultonia)... .”

According to his legend, Fridianus was brought up trained in Irish monasticism, and was taught by St Enda and St Colman. He was later ordained a priest. Upon a pilgrimage to Italy, he decided to dedicate his life to God in solitude, and became a hermit, living on Mount Pisano near the city of Lucca. In 556, Pope John II persuaded him to take the bishopric of Lucca, which Fridianus accepted. However, he would often return to countryside to spend his time in quiet prayer and solitude.