Margaret of Castello

Andrea di bartolo, caterina da siena tra quattro beate domenicane e scene delle rispettive vite, 1394-98 ca. (ve, accademia) 09 margherita di c. di castello

Margaret of Castello (1287 – 12 April 1320) was an Italian Roman Catholic saint and member of the Dominican Third Order. Born into a noble family in Metola, Italy, she became known for her deep spiritual life, charitable works, and the miracles attributed to her both during her life and after her death. Despite facing significant personal challenges, including severe disabilities and abandonment by her family, Margaret's life is celebrated for her unwavering faith and dedication to serving the poor and sick. She was beatified in 1609 and canonized a saint by Pope Francis in 2021.

Early Life

Margaret was born in 1287 in Metola, in the province of Città di Castello, Umbria, Italy. She was born blind, with severe spinal deformities, and her legs were of different lengths. Her parents, Parisio and Emilia, were dismayed by her disabilities and kept her hidden from public view. Seeking a cure for her conditions, her parents took her to a Franciscan shrine but left her there when it became clear that no miracle would occur. Margaret was eventually taken in by the local townspeople, who provided for her education and upbringing.

Religious Life and Works

Margaret came to live with a group of religious women in Città di Castello after being abandoned by her family. Although not formally a nun, she lived a life of prayer and penance in this community. She joined the Dominican Third Order, dedicating her life to the care of the poor, sick, and imprisoned. Margaret's deep faith and kindness won her the admiration and respect of many in the city, and she became known for her prophetic gifts and the miracles attributed to her.

Death and Canonization

Margaret of Castello died on 12 April 1320, at the age of 33. After her death, her body remained incorrupt, and many miracles were reported at her tomb. Her cult spread rapidly, and she was beatified by Pope Paul V in 1609. On 24 April 2021, Pope Francis recognized a miracle attributed to her intercession, leading to her canonization as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church.

Legacy

Saint Margaret of Castello is venerated as the patron saint of the blind, disabled, and unwanted people. Her life is a testament to the power of faith and charity, and she remains a beloved figure in Città di Castello and beyond. Her feast day is celebrated on 13 April.

See Also

• Dominican Order
• List of Catholic saints
• Incorruptibility