Marcian of Tortona
Marcian of Tortona is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, traditionally recognized as the first bishop of Tortona. He is remembered as a martyr who is said to have been crucified for his Christian faith.
- Feast Day
- March 6
- Century
- 2nd century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Marcian of Tortona died between 117 and 120 AD.
- ›He is traditionally considered the first bishop of Tortona, serving for forty-five years.
- ›Tradition states he was born to a pagan family and converted by Barnabas.
- ›He is said to have been crucified for his Christianity.
- ›Documents from the eighth century attest to his episcopate.
- ›His relics were found in the fourth century and are now in the cathedral of Tortona.
Marciano, Marziano, Marcianus
Tortona
About Marcian of Tortona
Marcian of Tortona, also known by variations such as Marciano, Marziano, and Marcianus, is a saint recognized by the Roman Catholic Church. Tradition holds that he was the inaugural bishop of Tortona, a city located in what is now north-western Italy. He is believed to have held this episcopal office for a significant period of forty-five years.
Legend and Martyrdom
According to tradition, Marcian was born into a pagan family. His conversion to Christianity is attributed to Barnabas, and he was later confirmed in his faith by Sirus, the bishop of Pavia. Secundus of Asti is said to have encountered Marcian in Tortona when Secundus was still a pagan, and this meeting reportedly influenced Secundus's decision to embrace Christianity. Marcian is venerated as a martyr, with legend stating he was crucified for his Christian beliefs.
Historicity and Veneration
There is some scholarly discussion regarding the precise year of Marcian's death, with sources suggesting either 117 AD under Emperor Trajan or 120 AD under Emperor Hadrian. Eighth-century documents attest to his episcopate, and Walafrid Strabo noted him as the first bishop of the Tortonese community and a martyr. His relics were found on the left bank of the Scrivia in the fourth century by Innocent, bishop of Brescia, and are now housed in the cathedral of Tortona. A finger bone attributed to Marcian is preserved in Genola, where he is also honored as a patron.
Marcian of Tortona is the patron saint of Tortona, and his feast day is observed on March 6.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Marcian of Tortona?
Marcian of Tortona is a saint of the Roman Catholic Church, traditionally believed to have been the first bishop of Tortona. He is said to have held this post for forty-five years and is venerated as a martyr.
When did Marcian of Tortona live and die?
Marcian of Tortona is believed to have died between 117 and 120 AD. The exact year is debated, with some sources placing his death under Emperor Trajan and others under Emperor Hadrian.
What is Marcian of Tortona remembered for?
He is remembered as the first bishop of Tortona and as a martyr who was reportedly crucified for his faith. Tradition also states he was born to a pagan family and converted to Christianity.
Where are the relics of Marcian of Tortona located?
The relics of Marcian of Tortona were found in the fourth century by Innocent, bishop of Brescia. They are now housed in the cathedral of Tortona. A finger bone associated with him is kept at Genola, where he is also a patron.
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