Enzo Bianchi, the monk and Christian theologian best known for founding the Bose monastic community in Piedmont, has died at the age of 83. Founded in 1965, Bose became one of the most innovative experiments in Christian monastic life in Europe. Over the years, Bianchi also emerged as a prominent public voice on Christianity in Italy, writing extensively for the newspapers Repubblica and La Stampa, appearing on television programmes and publishing several successful books with Einaudi. He was also highly regarded within the Catholic Church, receiving invitations and official roles from every pope from John Paul II onwards. In 2021, however, Bianchi left Bose after years of internal tensions that were ultimately resolved through the personal intervention of Pope Francis, who ordered his removal as head of the community. The precise reasons for the decision were never officially clarified. Bianchi was a charismatic and influential figure, whose strong personality and central role in the community reportedly made it difficult for him to relinquish power fully after formally stepping down as prior in 2017. Following his removal, he moved a few kilometers away and established a parallel community with several monks and nuns who had left Bose with him. Unlike most monasteries, Bose was and remains a mixed and ecumenical community, bringing together men and women belonging to different Christian denominations, including Orthodox and Protestant traditions. Around 50 brothers and sisters currently live there. Over time, Bose's almost unique character in Italy made it an important reference point for ecumenical Christianity and for many progressive Catholics.