Spanish historian Enrique Flórez thought Atto was from Badajoz in Extremadura, Spain close to the Portuguese border.

[2] He went as a pilgrim to Italy, and stopped at Vallombrosa Abbey where he was welcomed by the abbot, Bernardo degli Uberti.

He wrote lives of John Gualbert and Bernard degli Uberti, bishop of Parma.

As bishop, he managed the delicate relationship with the municipal authorities of Pistoia, often marked by breakdowns and clashes.

People from neighboring districts would flock to the square, which was illuminated with countless torches displayed from ornate window sills.