Constantius of Capri

Constantius, also known by the name Antonii de Ripolis and honored in Italy as San Costanzo di Capri, lived in the early medieval centuries. His birthplace is not known, and the details of his life are largely veiled in tradition. Remembered as a bishop who spent many years wandering, he became closely bound to the island of Capri, where he died in the 7th or 8th century near Marina Grande. Later generations treasured the story of his mysterious arrival: according to local memory, his body was placed in a barrel and brought to Capri, an event commemorated as having occurred around the year 739. Though accounts differ—some calling him a bishop of Constantinople, others suggesting he fled to Italy from Africa—Capri came to invoke his protection with deep confidence, especially in times of danger such as raids along the coast. A church dedicated to him stands between Marina Grande and Anacapri, and relics associated with him are also preserved elsewhere in Italy. Saint Constantius is venerated as the patron of Capri. His feast day is May 14.