Giles of Assisi was a 13th-century Franciscan monk and a prominent early follower of Saint Francis. Born around 1190, he joined the movement in 1209 and was famously referred to by Francis as the knight of their round table. After traveling extensively through Europe and the Middle East, he eventually settled in the hermitage of Monteripido near Perugia. He is remembered for his profound mystical experiences and his commitment to manual labor, which he performed to support himself during his many travels.