Marius
Marius of Avenches was a bishop of Aventicum (modern Avenches) and later Lausanne, remembered for his concise chronicle. He is also noted for his skills as a goldsmith and his dedication to the poor, and after his death, he was venerated as a saint in Lausanne.
- Feast Day
- February 9 or 12
- Century
- 6th century
- Country Or Region
- Switzerland
Key Facts
- ›Marius was born near Autun, likely in 530, to a distinguished and wealthy family, probably Gallo-Roman.
- ›He became Bishop of Aventicum in 574 and later transferred his episcopal see to Lausanne.
- ›He is described as an ideal bishop, a skilled goldsmith, a protector of the poor, a man of prayer, and a scholar.
- ›Marius wrote a brief chronicle that covers the years from 455 to 581 and is a valuable source for Burgundian and Franconian history.
- ›He was the first to use the term "variola" to describe an epidemic of smallpox in 570.
- ›After his death in Lausanne, he was venerated as a saint in that city, with his feast day celebrated on February 9 or 12.
Marius Aventicensis, Marius of Avenches
About Marius
Marius of Avenches
Marius of Avenches, born around 530 near Autun and dying on December 31, 596, was a significant figure in 6th-century Burgundy, serving as the Bishop of Aventicum (modern Avenches) from 574. His life and work are primarily known through his own terse chronicle and later accounts from his tomb inscription in Lausanne. He hailed from a distinguished, wealthy family, likely Gallo-Roman.
Life and Ministry
As Bishop of Aventicum, Marius participated in the Second Council of Mâcon in 585. Recognizing the decline of Aventicum, he strategically transferred his episcopal see to Lausanne. Beyond his administrative and ecclesiastical duties, Marius was extolled as an ideal bishop, demonstrating a multifaceted character. He was a skilled goldsmith who fashioned sacred liturgical vessels with his own hands, a devoted protector and benefactor of the poor who actively worked his own land, and a man of prayer and scholarship. In 587, he consecrated a church built at his expense on his own property in Paterniacum (Payerne), which later led to the church of Saint Thyrsus being rededicated to Saint Marius.
Chronicle Writer
Marius's most enduring contribution is his brief chronicle, a continuation of earlier works, which spans from 455 to 581. Considering himself Roman, he dated events by consuls and emperors of the Eastern Roman Empire. This chronicle is a vital source for Burgundian and Franconian history, particularly for the latter half of the 6th century, offering insights that can correct the biases of contemporary historians like Gregory of Tours regarding the Arians of Burgundy. Notably, Marius is credited as the first to use the term 'variola' to describe an epidemic of smallpox that affected Gaul and Italy in 570.
Veneration and Legacy
Following his death in Lausanne, Marius was venerated as a saint in that city, with his feast day celebrated on February 9 or 12. His chronicle has been published multiple times by prominent scholars and institutions, ensuring its continued accessibility and importance for historical research. Marius is remembered not only for his historical writings but also for his exemplary life as a bishop, craftsman, and philanthropist.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Marius of Avenches?
Marius of Avenches, also known as Marius Aventicensis, was a bishop of Aventicum (modern Avenches) and later Lausanne in the 6th century. He is primarily remembered for his terse chronicle and for being venerated as a saint after his death.
What is Marius of Avenches famous for?
He is chiefly remembered for his brief chronicle, which is a valuable source for Burgundian and Franconian history, especially for the latter half of the 6th century. He is also noted for his skills as a goldsmith and his charitable works.
When did Marius live?
Marius was born around 530 and died on December 31, 596. He served as bishop from 574 until his death.
Where was Marius a bishop?
Marius was initially the Bishop of Aventicum (modern Avenches). He later transferred his episcopal see to Lausanne as Aventicum was in decline.
What is the historical significance of Marius's chronicle?
His chronicle covers the years from 455 to 581 and is considered an important source for understanding Burgundian and Franconian history. It also helps to correct the bias found in other historical accounts, such as those of Gregory of Tours.
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