St. Rupert of Salzburg | March 28

St. Rupert of Salzburg | March 28

St. Rupert of Salzburg is also known as the “Apostle of Bavaria and Austria.” Although mostly legend, it is believed that he was born sometime around 660 in Gaul, which is now part of France. It is possible that he is a descendant of the Merovingian royal line. Not much is known about the saint’s early life.

We do know that Rupert was first appointed as Bishop of Worms in present-day Germany and despite many good works there, the pagan population eventually beat him and forced him from the city. Rupert retired to Rome for a time until Duke Theodo of Bavaria asked him to come to help establish the Church more firmly in Bavaria. Rupert agreed and brought with him a group of priests. Rupert traveled the region, effecting conversions, miracles, healing.

Eventually Rupert chose to settle at Juvavum an old Roman city mostly in ruins. He renamed the city Salzburg or “Salt Castle,” and established there a great cathedral and monastery under the Rule of St. Benedict. His niece became abbess of the Benedictine convent he founded nearby. Rupert was the first bishop of Salzburg, serving also as abbot of the monastery.

St. Rupert is usually portrayed carrying a vessel of salt, as he helped establish the salt mining industry for which he named the city. It is said that Rupert died on Easter Sunday though sources disagree on the year, which could have been around 710 or possibly as late as 718.