Conon of Naso
A medieval Sicilian monk who abandoned noble wealth for a hermit's life, becoming a local patron saint known for miraculous tales.
1139–1236 (age 97)·Italian Roman Catholic saint·Birthday: June 3
Biography
The story of Conon of Naso is woven through with the threads of renunciation and rustic piety. Born into a wealthy landowning family in 12th-century Sicily, he was expected to manage the family estate. Instead, he felt a call to a radically different life. Turning his back on his inheritance, he entered the Basilian monastery of Fragalà, following the ancient Eastern monastic rule of St. Basil. His quest for austerity led him further into solitude, and he eventually lived as a hermit in the remote forests near his hometown of Naso. For the local populace, he became a living symbol of holiness, a man who had traded comfort for contemplation. After his death, a fervent local cult grew around him, fueled by stories of miracles and healings attributed to his intercession. He was never formally canonized by the Vatican, but centuries of popular veneration led Pope Leo XIII to confirm his status as a patron saint of Naso in the late 19th century, sealing his place as a beloved, homegrown holy figure.
#1 When Conon Was Born
The biggest hits of 1139
Conon's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1139Born
1144Started school
1152Became a teenager
1155Could drive
1157Could vote
1160Turned 21
1169Turned 30
1179Turned 40
1189Turned 50
1199Turned 60
1209Turned 70
1219Turned 80
1236Died at 97
Key Achievements
- Founded a monastic community and served as abbot, promoting the Basilian rule in medieval Sicily.
- His life of extreme asceticism and prayer established him as a major local figure of veneration.
- Recognized as the patron saint of Naso, Sicily, with his cult officially confirmed by papal decree in 1883.
Did You Know?
The name 'Conon' is of Greek origin, reflecting the strong Byzantine cultural influence in Sicily during his era.
He is often invoked in Sicily for protection against earthquakes and droughts.
His feast day is celebrated on March 28th.
Multiple churches in the province of Messina, Sicily, are dedicated to him.
“I left the fields to tend the vineyard of the Lord.”
