The Seven Holy Founders, originally a group of Italian merchants, established a community in 1233 near Florence because of political upheaval and the disruption caused by the Cathari, a heretical Christian sect. Led by Bonfilius, the seven men united in their devotion to the Virgin Mary, who, according to tradition, appeared to them in a vision and instructed them to seek solitude.
With their bishopβs approval, they moved to Cafaggio, outside the gates of Florence, living a life of poverty and fellowship. Seeking stricter isolation, they departed for Monte Senario, where they built a hermitage and laid the foundation for their order. According to later legends, they received a second vision of Mary on Good Friday, April 13, 1240. She directed them to serve her, wear a black habit, and adopt the rule of St. Augustine of Hippo, after which the community became known as the Servants of St. Mary, or the Servites. In 1256 Pope Alexander IV formally approved the order.