Narnus
Saint Narnus is venerated as the first bishop of Bergamo. Christian tradition holds that he was consecrated by Saint Barnabas, though historical evidence suggests he lived later. He is primarily remembered for his role as the first bishop of Bergamo and the location of his relics.
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Narnus is venerated as the first bishop of Bergamo.
- ›Christian tradition states he was consecrated by Saint Barnabas during the Apostolic Age.
- ›Historical evidence suggests Narnus lived later than the Apostolic Age.
- ›The oldest source mentioning Narnus dates from the 13th century, written by friar Branca da Gandino.
- ›Branca da Gandino placed Narnus as bishop of Bergamo during the reign of Diocletian in the fourth century.
- ›His relics were translated to the church of San Vincenzo, now the cathedral of Bergamo.
About Narnus
Saint Narnus
Saint Narnus, also known as San Narno in Italian, is venerated as the first bishop of Bergamo. Christian tradition holds that he was consecrated in his office by Saint Barnabas during the Apostolic Age. However, historical analysis suggests that Narnus likely lived at a later period.
Historical Context and Sources
The earliest extant source that mentions Saint Narnus dates from the 13th century. This account was written by Branca da Gandino, a friar. According to Gandino's writings, Narnus served as a bishop of Bergamo during the fourth century, specifically within the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Veneration and Relics
Saint Narnus was buried in the crypt of a church in Bergamo that was dedicated to Saint Alexander of Bergamo. In 1561, this church was demolished. At that time, the relics of Saint Narnus, along with those of his successor Saint Viator, were translated to the church of San Vincenzo. This church is today the cathedral of Bergamo, and it is where Saint Narnus's relics are still venerated.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Narnus?
Saint Narnus is venerated as the first bishop of Bergamo. Christian tradition holds he was consecrated by Saint Barnabas, though historical evidence suggests he lived later.
When did Saint Narnus live?
While Christian tradition suggests he was consecrated during the Apostolic Age, historical evidence points to him likely living later. The 13th-century friar Branca da Gandino considered him a bishop of Bergamo during the fourth century, under Diocletian.
Where are Saint Narnus' relics located?
Saint Narnus was originally buried in the crypt of a church in Bergamo dedicated to Saint Alexander of Bergamo. When this church was demolished in 1561, his relics were translated to the church of San Vincenzo, which is now the cathedral of Bergamo, where they remain today.
What is the oldest source mentioning Saint Narnus?
The oldest source that mentions Saint Narnus dates from the 13th century. It was written by a friar named Branca da Gandino.
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