Rome was completely devastated by fire in July of the year 64 AD. Nero was allegedly to blame for the tragedy because he intended to expand his palace. He transferred the blame by accusing the Christians, who were then executed—by being crucified, fed to the wild animals in his circus, or chained to posts and set on fire as human torches.

They are known as the Neronian Martyrs because of their executions during the reign of Emperor Nero. They are also known as the Protomartyrs of Rome, and the Vatican City location known as the Piazza of the Protomartyrs, which was once the location of Nero's Circus, honors them.

They were known as the "Disciples of the Apostles" and died as martyrs before Sts. Peter and Paul. Their steadfastness in the face of their horrifying deaths was a potent witness that encouraged many conversions in the early Roman Church.

Other Saints of the Day

Saint Clotsindis

Saint Erentrudis

Saint Lucina

Saint Vincent Yen

Saint Theobald of Provins