Saint Benedict (born about 480 near Nursia, Italy, died March 21, 547 in Monte Cassino) was a great monk and abbot who founded twelve monasteries and wrote the Rule of St. Benedict. He was canonized by the Catholic Church in 1220 A.D. St. Benedict's rules are also followed by some monastic communities of the Lutheran and Anglican Churches. In 1964 Pope Paul VI named St. Benedict as Patron Saint of Europe in recognition of his contribution to European Christianity and civilization.
He was a leader in maintaining preserving and advancing intellectual achievement during the Dark Ages.