Monks and Mystics

Chart of Christian Monks and Mystics

This chart provides quick-reference information on notable monks and mystics in Christian history.

Many more saints and historical figures than those listed here were monks (e.g. Martin Luther, St. Anselm of Canterbury); this page includes only those who are especially known for their contributions to monasticism, their monastic life and/or their mysticism.

Image	Name(s)	Birth	Death	Order	Writings	Overview
	Anthony (Antony) of Egypt	c. 251 Egypt	356 Egypt	none	none	Considered founder of Christian monasticism. Left wealth to live as a hermit in the desert.
	Benedict of Nursia	480 Nursia	543 Monte Cassino	Benedictine	Rule of St. Benedict	Considered founder of western monasticism.
	Bernard of Clairvaux	1090 Fontaines, France	Aug. 20, 1153 Clairvaux	Cisterician	various letters, sermons, and hymns	Excellent preacher; revived religious piety in Europe. Preached the Second Crusade.
	Dominic	c. 1170 Calaroga, Castile	Aug. 6, 1221 Bologna	Order of Preachers (Dominican)	Nine Ways of Prayer	Founder of the Dominican order. Credited with invention of the rosary. Acted as Inquisitor against heretics.
	Francis of Assisi	1181/2 Assisi, Italy	Oct. 3, 1226 Portiuncula, Italy	Franciscan	Regula Primitiva (first monastic rule)	Founder of the Franciscan order. Known for stigmata and abilities with animals. Built first nativity scene.
	Ignatius of Loyola; San Ignacio de Loyola	1491 Loyola, Spain	July 31, 1556 Rome, Italy	Society of Jesus (Jesuit)	Spiritual Exercises; Constitutions of the Society of Jesus	Founder of the monastic Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and one of the most influential figures in the Catholic Reformation.