Anselmo I Archbishop of Milan Date of Birth: . Country: Italy

1. Life and Origins
2. Appointment and Role
3. Involvement in Rebellion and Imprisonment
4. Later Life and Death
5. Burial and Discovery

Life and Origins

Anselm I, Archbishop of Milan from 813/814 to 818, is a venerated saint in the Archdiocese of Milan. His exact origins are unclear. Milanese legends claimed him to be a member of the noble Biglia family, but these accounts have been disputed by modern historians.

Appointment and Role

Anselm ascended to the Archdiocese of Milan in 813 or 814, succeeding Archbishop Odelbert. He became a close confidant of King Bernard of Italy, the metropolitan of Lombardy. Sources suggest he was the spiritual advisor behind Bernard's rebellion against his uncle, Emperor Louis the Pious, in 817.

Involvement in Rebellion and Imprisonment

After the rebellion's failure, Anselm, along with Bishop Welfold of Cremona and Theodulf of Orleans, was arrested and brought before the emperor in Chalon. They were detained and later sentenced to deposition and confinement in monasteries.

Later Life and Death

Little is known of Anselm's fate after his imprisonment. Legends state that he returned to Milan with King Bernard's body and buried it in the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio. He is believed to have died protecting the archdiocesan property from enemies of the late king. Anselm was revered as a saint in Milan for his actions.

Burial and Discovery

Anselm's body was interred in the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio alongside King Bernard. Their tomb was opened in 1498 and again in 1638 during renovations. A fresco was painted depicting Bernard and Anselm as they were found. The exact date of Anselm's death is uncertain, with medieval diptychs indicating 11 May 822, while historians believe it may have occurred earlier in 818.