Constantius of Perugia

Saint Constantius of Perugia lived in the second century and died around AD 170, in the region of Umbria, Italy. Local tradition remembers him as the first bishop of Perugia, chosen while still a young man, and as a tireless shepherd who preached the Gospel and cared especially for the poor. During the persecutions under the Roman emperors Antoninus Pius or Marcus Aurelius, he was arrested for his faith, beaten, and subjected to cruel trials. Legend recounts that he and his companions were even forced into a blazing stove, yet by God’s protection they emerged unharmed. Imprisoned again, Constantius converted his guards, who then helped set him free. Seeking refuge with a Christian named Anastasius, he was soon captured once more. After further torture in prisons at Assisi and Spello, Constantius and Anastasius were beheaded near Foligno, sealing their witness with martyrdom. Honored as a patron of Perugia and of the Nave district, Saint Constantius is celebrated on January 29.