Walter Ophamil PRESENTATION PART I

Walter Ophamil (Gualtiero Offamiglio), an Italian archbishop of the 12th century, led the diocese of Palermo from 1169 to 1190. Advisor to William II of Sicily from 1171 to 1189, he played a key role in shaping the young sovereign. Initially the archpriest of Cefalù, he became the tutor of the children of William I and Margaret of Navarre in 1161. After the death of William I, he stood by William II, contributing to the stability of the kingdom. In 1184, he supported the marriage between Constance of Altavilla and Emperor Henry VI in 1186. Archbishop since 1169, he promoted the construction of the Church of the Holy Spirit and the reconstruction of the Cathedral of Palermo, where he rests after his passing. He was succeeded as archbishop by his brother Bartolomeo.