Proculus of Bologna
Saint Proculus of Bologna, also known as Proculus the Soldier, was an Italian saint and a Roman officer martyred around 304 AD under Diocletian. He is primarily remembered as a patron of Bologna for his active role in spreading Christianity and for his martyrdom.
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Saint Proculus of Bologna was an Italian saint.
- ›He is said to have been a Roman officer martyred at Bologna.
- ›His martyrdom occurred under the reign of Emperor Diocletian.
- ›Tradition states he was a soldier active in spreading Christianity.
- ›One legend recounts him killing an official named Marinus before being beheaded.
- ›His remains are preserved in the church of San Procolo in Bologna.
Proculus the Soldier
Bologna
About Proculus of Bologna
Saint Proculus of Bologna
Saint Proculus of Bologna, also known as Saint Proculus the Soldier, is an Italian saint venerated for his martyrdom. Tradition holds that he was a Roman officer who met his end in Bologna around 304 AD during the reign of Emperor Diocletian.
Traditional Narrative
Two distinct legends surround Proculus. The first and more prominent narrative identifies him as a soldier actively involved in spreading Christianity. Enraged by the cruelties of an official named Marinus, who was sent to Bologna to enforce Diocletian's edicts, Proculus reportedly went to Marinus's house and killed him with an axe. Following this act, Proculus was himself beheaded, and it is said he carried his own head to the location where a church would later be dedicated in his honor.
A second account describes Proculus as a bishop from Terni who fled persecution from the Goths and came to Bologna, where he was subsequently decapitated.
Veneration and Legacy
The Bolognese people have held Proculus in veneration from very ancient times, establishing him as a patron of the city. His remains are preserved in the church of San Procolo in Bologna. He is also recognized iconographically, with a statue depicting him found on the spire of the south transept of the Duomo di Milan.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Proculus of Bologna?
Saint Proculus of Bologna was an Italian saint, believed to have been a Roman officer martyred around 304 AD under Emperor Diocletian. He is considered a patron of Bologna.
What is Saint Proculus known for?
He is chiefly remembered for his martyrdom and for his traditional role as a soldier active in spreading Christianity. One legend describes him killing an official before his own beheading.
Where are the remains of Saint Proculus located?
The remains of Saint Proculus are preserved in the church of San Procolo in Bologna, Italy.
Are there different legends about Saint Proculus?
Yes, there are two distinct legends. One describes him as a soldier who killed an enforcer of Diocletian's edicts and was subsequently beheaded. The second concerns a bishop of Terni fleeing persecution who came to Bologna and was decapitated.
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