Íñigo of Oña facts for kids
Íñigo of Oña (died 1 June 1057) was a Benedictine monk and abbot. He led the San Salvador Abbey in Oña, Spain. He is known as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His special day is 1 June.
Íñigo is the patron saint of Calatayud, the town where he was born. A very famous person, Ignatius of Loyola, was even named after him!
From Hermit to Abbot
Before becoming a well-known abbot, Íñigo lived as a hermit. This means he lived alone in the mountains. He spent his time in prayer and quiet reflection.
Later, King Sancho III of Pamplona asked him for help. The king wanted Íñigo to improve the monasteries in the area. So, Íñigo left his quiet life to help others. He worked closely with other priests. He was also respected by Jews and Muslims living nearby.
Leading the Abbey
As the abbot, Íñigo was in charge of the San Salvador Abbey. During his time, the abbey became more important. In 1046, it gained control over San Juan de Pancorvo. In 1048, it also took charge of San Juan, Santa María, and San Martín de Alfania. These areas were given to the abbey by King García V of Navarre.
Íñigo was also part of important events. In 1052, he helped consecrate a new monastery. This was Santa María la Real in Nájera. He also tried to stop a fight between brothers. This fight led to the Battle of Atapuerca in 1054, where King García died. Íñigo passed away a few years later in Oña.
Becoming a Saint
Many people believed Íñigo was a very holy man. Even Jews and Muslims were sad when he died.
In 1163, Pope Alexander III allowed people in Tours to celebrate Íñigo's life. This was even before he was officially made a saint. In 1170, the Pope allowed his remains to be moved to a special altar.
Later, in 1258, Pope Alexander IV offered a special blessing to those who visited Íñigo's tomb. He was officially made a saint on 18 June 1259. His feast day is celebrated on the day he died.
Years later, Pope Gregory XIII gave another special blessing in 1575. In 1736, King Philip V of Spain asked Pope Clement XII to include Íñigo's feast day in the main Roman calendar.
See also
In Spanish: Íñigo de Oña para niños
