Saint Braulio of Zaragoza

Braulio was born around 590 into a Hispano-Roman family that gave several bishops to the Church. He studied at Seville under Saint Isidore, who became his close friend and mentor. In 631 he succeeded his brother John as bishop of Zaragoza, in the Visigothic kingdom of Hispania. He was a gifted writer and a devoted pastor, known for his care of the poor and for defending sound doctrine.

Braulio urged Isidore to complete his great encyclopedia, the Etymologies, and after Isidore's death he edited it and divided it into twenty books, helping it become one of the most widely read works of the Middle Ages. He also wrote a Life of Saint Emilian (San Millán), dozens of letters, and a respectful reply to Pope Honorius I on behalf of the Spanish bishops. He took part in several Councils of Toledo and died around 651.

Braulio is the patron of Zaragoza and of its University, which celebrates his day with academic events. The city honors him with Mass at the cathedral of La Seo, near the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar.