Astius
Astius was a 2nd-century Christian martyr and bishop of Dyrrhachium. He is venerated by the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches for his steadfast refusal to worship pagan gods, which led to his torture and crucifixion under Emperor Trajan. His martyrdom inspired other Christians who later met a similar fate.
- Feast Day
- July 4
- Century
- 2nd century
- Country Or Region
- Albania
Key Facts
- ›Astius was the bishop of Dyrrhachium (modern Durrës, Albania).
- ›He was martyred around 98 AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan.
- ›According to legend, he was arrested by the Roman governor Agricola.
- ›He was tortured with leaden rods and whips, smeared with honey to attract insects, and then crucified.
- ›His refusal to worship the god Dionysus led to his death.
- ›Seven other Christian martyrs, inspired by Astius's example, were later drowned in the Adriatic Sea.
Asti, Άστιος
DurrëS
About Astius
Astius was a 2nd-century Christian martyr and bishop of Dyrrhachium, a city located in modern-day Albania. He is venerated in both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.
Life and Historical Context
Born Illyrian, Astius served as the bishop of Dyrrhachium during the reign of the Roman Emperor Trajan (98–117 AD). According to hagiographical accounts, Astius experienced a premonition of his impending suffering and death for Christ. He was arrested around the year 98 AD by Agricola, the Roman governor of Dyrrachium. The legend states that Astius endured severe torture, including being beaten with leaden rods and oxhide whips, but he remained steadfast in his faith and refused to renounce Christ.
To further increase his suffering, his body was smeared with honey, exposing him to the stings of hornets and flies. Ultimately, Astius was crucified for his refusal to worship the pagan god Dionysus. His martyrdom occurred during the period of persecution against Christians under Roman rule. Following his death, Christians reverently buried his body.
Witnessed Martyrdom and Other Martyrs
The text also mentions seven holy martyrs—Peregrinus, Lucian, Pompeius, Hesychius, Papius, Saturninus, and Germanus—who had fled to Epirus to escape persecution in Italy. Witnessing the crucifixion of Bishop Astius, they openly praised his courage. Consequently, they were also arrested as confessors of the Christian faith, chained, and subsequently drowned in the Adriatic Sea. Their bodies were washed ashore and hidden in the sand by Christians. It is said that these martyrs appeared to the Bishop of Alexandria ninety years later, instructing him to bury their bodies and build a church in their honor. Their feast day is July 7.
Veneration
Saint Astius is recognized for his martyrdom and is declared the patron protector of the city of Durrës. His feast day is celebrated on July 4, with a specific commemoration in Albania on July 6. A portrait of Saint Astius in the Church of St. Mary Peribleptos in Ohrid, likely donated by the Albanian nobleman and Byzantine general Progonos Sgouros, symbolizes the historical connection between Durrës and Ohrid.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Astius?
Astius was a 2nd-century Christian who served as the bishop of Dyrrhachium (modern Durrës, Albania). He is venerated as a martyr by both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.
How did Astius die?
According to legend, Astius was arrested around 98 AD by the Roman governor Agricola for refusing to worship the god Dionysus. He was tortured extensively, including being beaten and smeared with honey to attract insects, before being crucified under Emperor Trajan.
What is Astius remembered for?
Astius is remembered for his martyrdom and his unwavering faith in Christ, refusing to renounce his beliefs even under severe torture. His courage is said to have inspired other Christians who witnessed his death.
When is Astius's feast day?
The feast day of Saint Astius is celebrated on July 4. In Albania, he is commemorated on July 6.
Where was Astius the bishop?
Astius was the bishop of the city of Dyrrhachium, which is known today as Durrës in Albania.
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