St. Albert the Great – Interesting Facts and Trivia

  • Universal Doctor: St. Albert’s vast knowledge earned him the title “Doctor Universalis” or “Universal Doctor.” He wrote on a broad range of subjects, from metaphysics to zoology, demonstrating his belief in the unity of all knowledge.
  • Advocate for Harmony of Faith and Science: He famously said, “The aim of natural science is not simply to accept the statements of others, but to investigate the causes that are at work in nature.” This idea underscores his belief that scientific inquiry and faith in God were mutually reinforcing.
  • Miraculous Knowledge of Languages: It is said that despite limited formal training, St. Albert had a profound understanding of multiple languages, a phenomenon his followers viewed as miraculous and an indication of divine favor.
  • Legacy at the University of Cologne: The city of Cologne, where he spent his final years, continues to honor St. Albert’s legacy. The University of Cologne houses a dedicated Albertus Magnus Institute, where his works are preserved and studied.