Guarinus of Palestrina was a 12th-century Italian prelate born in Bologna. After being ordained a priest at the age of 24, he joined the Santa Croce Congregation in 1104. He eventually rose to the rank of cardinal-bishop through the appointment of Pope Lucius II. Known for his charitable nature, he famously used resources provided by the papacy to support the impoverished. His ecclesiastical career included participation in three papal conclaves before his death in 1158.