MONSIGNOR FABIO BIONDI

MONSIGNOR FABIO BIONDI

Fabio Biondi was born in Montalto in 1533 into an “ancient and civil family”, closely linked by kinship and friendship with the Peretti family, from which Pope Sistus V and the influential Cardinal Alessandro would emerge. These family ties were at the origin of his ecclesiastical career. After his initial experience as Parish priest of the church of S. Maria ad Collem in Montalto, Felice Peretti, after being elected Pope, called Biondi to Rome and appointed him as tutor to his nephew, the adolescent Alessandro whom he himself elevated to Cardinal.

In 1588, the Pope rewarded his services by bestowing upon him the title of Patriarch of Jerusalem. It is probable that the same Pope also granted Biondi significant benefits in Piedmont, including an abbey with an annual income of 1000 ecus and a parish in Vercelli. On 1 October 1592, Clement VIII appointed Biondi collector in Portugal. From August 1593, he also assumed the role of vice-legate, which greatly increased his importance. While he was still in charge in Lisbon, he wanted to visit his patriarchal seat in Jerusalem: the trip was very successful thanks to the excellent welcome given to him by the Turkish authorities at the sultan’s disposal. He returned to Rome, where in 1602 Clement VIII appointed him butler and Prefect of the palace, positions he held until his death. Among his duties, he had to maintain relations with the Christians of the Congo and, due to his zeal, was given numerous papal privileges and concessions. He died in Rome in 1618.