Saint Henry, born around 973 in Italy, came from a noble Bavarian family. He became Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in 1014 under the name of Henry II.
Renowned for his deep piety, he reformed monasteries and actively supported the Church. He founded and enriched many abbeys, notably Cluny in Burgundy.
Married to Saint Cunégonde, they lived together in chastity. His reign was marked by the constant search for peace and justice. He died in 1024 in Bamberg (Germany), where he was buried in the cathedral. Canonized in 1146 by Pope Eugene III, he is celebrated on July 13.
