MARIA CATERINA BRONDI. — Mystic, born at Sarzana on 24 March 1684, died at Pisa on 28 July 1719. Her mystical journey was accompanied by singular phenomena: ecstasies, revelations, participation in the sufferings of the Passion (three hours nailed to an invisible Cross), levitations (she would drag two religious women with her), extreme penances, absolute fasting for months and years. Her life abounded in charisms that often mark the unitive way and infused contemplation. These supernatural manifestations provoked much theological discussion.
C. N. Bambacari published an interesting biography of her, especially as documentation (it includes various accounts, letters and spiritual writings of Brondi). Particular notice was taken of the fact that, as proof to her confessor that she could nourish herself solely on the Holy Communion, four persons remained for nine days without taking any food or drink whatever, and without experiencing any discomfort. This case, supported by the testimony of those involved and the sworn statements of the examiners, was submitted to the Bishop of Sarzana and the Holy Office, which twice gave a favourable response and permission for Brondi to tend the sick in the hospitals of Genoa (1714) and Pisa (1719).