Antoninus of Piacenza

Saint Antoninus of Piacenza was born in the region of northern Italy, though the details of his early life have been lost to time. He is remembered above all as a steadfast martyr who gave his life for Christ during the fierce Diocletianic Persecution, dying around the year 303. Ancient Christian memory places his martyrdom at Piacenza, or possibly at nearby Travo, where devotion to him took deep root among the faithful. Antoninus is among the early saints whose witness was cherished by the Church from the first centuries, and his name was preserved in the writings and martyrologies of that era. After his relics were rediscovered, Sabinus of Piacenza established a sanctuary in his honor, strengthening local devotion and drawing pilgrims to seek the intercession of one who had remained loyal to the Lord unto death. Later tradition even associated him with the legendary Theban Legion, highlighting his image as a courageous Christian soldier. He is honored as patron of Piacenza, Locate Bergamasco, Travo, and Triuggio. His feast day is September 30.