Acisclus
Saint Acisclus was a martyr from Córdoba in Hispania who died in 304 AD during the Diocletianic Persecution. He is chiefly remembered for his martyrdom alongside his sister Victoria, their veneration as patron saints of Córdoba, and their depiction in art.
- Feast Day
- 17 November
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Spain
Key Facts
- ›Acisclus was a martyr from Córdoba in Hispania who died in 304.
- ›He suffered martyrdom during the Diocletianic Persecution along with his sister Victoria.
- ›According to tradition, Victoria was killed by arrows and Acisclus was beheaded.
- ›A tenth-century passio describes his and Victoria's miraculous survival from a fiery furnace and the Guadalquivir river.
- ›Acisclus and Victoria are patron saints of Córdoba and their cult was venerated throughout Hispania and southern France.
- ›They are represented in art as a young man and woman crowned with roses.
Ascylus, Ocysellus, Acisclo (Spanish), Aciscle (French)
CóRdoba
About Acisclus
Saint Acisclus
Saint Acisclus, also known by variations such as Ascylus and Ocysellus, was a Christian martyr from Córdoba in Hispania (the Iberian Peninsula, encompassing modern Portugal and Spain). His life and martyrdom are documented in the writings of Eulogius of Cordoba. Acisclus met his end in 304 AD during the Diocletianic Persecution, a period of intense Christian persecution under the Roman Empire.
Life and Martyrdom
Acisclus suffered martyrdom alongside his sister, Victoria. While there is historical doubt regarding Victoria's existence, both were honored in the Mozarabic liturgy. According to hagiographical accounts, after being arrested and tortured, Victoria was killed by arrows, and Acisclus was beheaded. A tenth-century passio (account of martyrdom) recounts a more elaborate series of torments, including being cast into a fiery furnace and then bound to stones and thrown into the Guadalquivir River, from which they emerged unharmed. These narratives highlight their unwavering faith and the miraculous interventions attributed to them before their ultimate submission to martyrdom.
Veneration and Legacy
Acisclus, together with Victoria, is recognized as a patron saint of Córdoba. Their veneration extended throughout Hispania and into southern France, especially in Provence. A minor church dedicated to Saint Acisclus was situated on the slopes of Montserrat. Their home was transformed into a church, and during the ninth century, other martyrs of Córdoba, such as Perfectus, were associated with this site. In iconography, Acisclus and Victoria are often depicted as a young man and woman crowned with roses, symbolizing their martyrdom and purity.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Acisclus?
Saint Acisclus was a martyr from Córdoba in Hispania who died in 304 AD during the Diocletianic Persecution. He is honored for his faith and suffering.
When is Saint Acisclus's feast day?
The feast day of Saint Acisclus, along with his sister Victoria, is celebrated on November 17th.
What is Saint Acisclus known for?
He is known for his martyrdom during the Diocletianic Persecution alongside his sister Victoria. He is also recognized as a patron saint of Córdoba.
Are there any legends about Saint Acisclus?
According to tradition, Acisclus and Victoria survived miraculous attempts on their lives, including being cast into a fiery furnace and the Guadalquivir river, before ultimately submitting to martyrdom.
How is Saint Acisclus depicted in art?
Saint Acisclus and his sister Victoria are typically represented in art as a young man and woman crowned with roses.
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