Dominicus Loricatus, a monk of St.Croce d'Avellano, is mentioned as the master and model of this species of mortification of the flesh; which, according to the primitive notions of the Asiatic Anchorites, was deemed eminently Christian.

The author of the solemn processions of the Flagellants is said to have been St.
Anthony; for even in his time (1231) this kind of penance was so much in vogue, that it is recorded as an eventful circumstance in the history of the world.

In 1260, the Flagellants appeared in Italy as _Devoti_.

"When the land was polluted by vices and crimes, an unexampled spirit of remorse suddenly seized the minds of the Italians.

The fear of Christ fell upon all: noble and ignoble, old and young, and even children of five years of age, marched through the streets with no covering but a scarf round the waist.