Magnus of Cuneo

Saint Magnus of Cuneo is traditionally remembered as a Christian soldier of the Theban Legion, said to have lived in the late third century. While his birthplace is not known, local devotion places him among the troops commanded by Saint Maurice, who suffered persecution for refusing to renounce Christ. According to cherished legend, Magnus escaped the violence at Agaunum and fled into the mountains of Piedmont. There, in the high valleys of the Alps, he is honored as a fearless witness who preached the Gospel to isolated communities, strengthening the faith where it was little known. His life is venerated above all for his martyrdom: Magnus is believed to have been captured and killed for Christ, and buried on the very spot where the mountain sanctuary of San Magno now stands in Valle Grana, near Castelmagno. Through the centuries, pilgrims have sought his intercession there, and he remains a beloved patron of Castelmagno, often depicted as a Roman soldier bearing the palm of martyrdom. Saint Magnus of Cuneo is celebrated on August 19.