Secundus of Asti
Secundus of Asti was a martyr and saint venerated for his Christian faith and subsequent beheading. He is remembered for his refusal to renounce Christianity, even under torture, and his feast day is widely observed.
- Feast Day
- March 29
- Century
- 2nd century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Secundus of Asti died around 119 AD.
- ›He was beheaded at Asti under Emperor Hadrian.
- ›Tradition states he was a patrician of Asti and an officer in the imperial army.
- ›A church dedicated to him existed in the 9th century.
- ›Later legends identified him as a member of the Theban Legion.
- ›His feast day is generally celebrated on March 29.
Secondo di Asti
About Secundus of Asti
Secundus of Asti, also known as Secondo di Asti in Italian, is venerated as a martyr and saint within the Catholic Church. His historical existence is affirmed, and he is recognized for his martyrdom under the Roman Emperor Hadrian, likely around 119 AD. His death occurred in Asti, where he was beheaded for his Christian faith.
Life and Historical Context
Historical records indicate that Secundus was a patrician of Asti and served as a subaltern officer in the imperial army. The veneration of Secundus is evidenced by the dedication of a church in his name in the Asti area as early as the 9th century. His feast day is traditionally observed on March 29. However, the observance in Asti has evolved; it was historically celebrated on March 30 until the 15th century and is now held there on the first Tuesday in May.
Legend and Conversion
Later hagiographical traditions have enriched the narrative surrounding Secundus. These legends often place him as a member of the Theban Legion. A more elaborate account describes him as a young man of noble lineage who visited the jails of Asti. During his youth, Secundus was a friend of Sapricius, the prefect of Asti. Their travels together took them to Tortona, where Secundus encountered Marcian, the city's first bishop, who was also later martyred under Hadrian. This meeting, along with encounters with Faustinus and Jovita, significantly influenced Secundus's decision to embrace Christianity. His commitment to his new faith was tested when his friend Sapricius attempted to force him to renounce it. Secundus's steadfast refusal led to his torture and eventual decapitation.
Veneration and Artistic Depictions
The veneration of Secundus of Asti is noted in artistic traditions. He is depicted in the codex known as the Codice della Catena, alongside other saints such as Octavius, Adventor, Solutor, Maximus of Turin, and John the Baptist. Further artistic testament to his veneration is Bernardo Strozzi's painting, "St Secundus and Angel," created around 1640.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Secundus of Asti die?
Secundus of Asti died around 119 AD. He was a historical figure who was martyred under the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
What is Secundus of Asti known for?
Secundus of Asti is venerated as a martyr. He is remembered for his refusal to renounce his Christian faith, which led to his torture and beheading.
When is the feast day of Secundus of Asti?
His feast day is generally celebrated on March 29. Until the 15th century, it was celebrated on March 30 in Asti, but it is now observed there on the first Tuesday in May.
What was Secundus of Asti's role in Asti?
Tradition states that Secundus of Asti was a patrician of Asti and a subaltern officer in the imperial army. His martyrdom occurred in Asti.
Are there legends about Secundus of Asti?
Later legends made Secundus a member of the Theban Legion. A more elaborate legend describes him as a young man of noble lineage who visited jails and was influenced to become a Christian after meeting Marcian, the first bishop of Tortona.
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