Agapitus of Palestrina

Saint Agapitus was born in Palestrina in Lazio, Italy, and tradition holds that he came from a noble family. While still only sixteen years old, he bore courageous witness to Christ during the persecutions under Emperor Aurelian. Arrested for being a Christian, Agapitus endured harsh questioning and torture under the prefect Antiochus, yet remained steadfast in faith. According to ancient legend, he was led into the local arena and thrown to wild beasts; when the animals would not harm him, he was finally put to death by beheading. His youthful constancy and martyrdom made him a lasting sign of hope for the Church in time of trial. From early centuries he was remembered in the martyrologies, and a basilica was built in his honor near the place of his suffering, later giving rise to a cemetery and enduring local devotion. His relics were eventually enshrined in the cathedral of Palestrina and spread to other regions. Saint Agapitus is honored as patron of Maggiora, Palestrina, and Sant’Agapito. His feast day is August 18.