Crescentinus
Saint Crescentinus was a warrior saint venerated as the patron saint of Urbino. He is remembered for his legendary defeat of a dragon and his evangelization efforts in the Tiber Valley. His relics were brought to Urbino in 1068, and he is still honored with processions and rituals.
- Feast Day
- June 1
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He died on June 1, 303.
- ›He is the patron saint of Urbino.
- ›He is venerated as a warrior saint and sometimes depicted killing a dragon.
- ›He was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and fled to Umbria.
- ›His mission was confined to the Tiber Valley and ancient Thifernum Tiberinum.
- ›His relics were brought to Urbino in 1068 by Bishop Mainard.
San Crescentino, Crescenziano
Urbino
Horseback, Dragon
About Crescentinus
Saint Crescentinus
Saint Crescentinus is venerated as the patron saint of Urbino, with his feast day celebrated on June 1st. He is traditionally recognized as a warrior saint, often depicted on horseback in the act of slaying a dragon, a visual motif shared with Saint George. However, unlike Saint George, his hagiography does not typically include a princess or other female victim in his legend.
Legend and Ministry
The traditional account states that Crescentinus was a Roman soldier who embraced Christianity. To escape the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian, he sought refuge in Umbria, finding a haven in Thifernum Tiberinum, which is modern-day Città di Castello. His successful defeat of a dragon is credited with aiding his evangelization efforts in the region, particularly within the Tiber Valley and the ancient Thifernum Tiberinum. His life and ministry concluded with his beheading.
Veneration and Relics
In 1068, Bishop Mainard of Urbino brought the relics of Saint Crescentinus to the city with the intention of enriching its cathedral. The saint's image also appeared on the armellino coin, issued by Duke Francesco Maria I della Rovere of Urbino, further solidifying his connection to the city. His veneration continues in Urbino, where a statue of him is carried in procession on his feast day. A unique devotional practice involves tapping the heads of supplicants with Crescentinus' relics to offer relief from headaches.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Crescentinus?
Saint Crescentinus was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and became a martyr. He is venerated as a warrior saint and is the patron saint of Urbino.
What is Saint Crescentinus remembered for?
He is remembered for his legendary defeat of a dragon and his evangelization efforts in the Tiber Valley. He is also known for his martyrdom on June 1, 303.
When is Saint Crescentinus' feast day?
His feast day is celebrated on June 1.
Where is Saint Crescentinus venerated?
He is particularly venerated in Urbino, Italy, where his relics are kept and his statue is carried in procession. He also has historical connections to Thifernum Tiberinum (modern Città di Castello).
How is Saint Crescentinus depicted?
He is sometimes depicted as a warrior saint on horseback, killing a dragon, similar to Saint George, though his legend typically excludes a princess or other female victim.
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