Apollinaris of Ravenna

About Apollinaris of Ravenna

Apollinaris is venerated as the first Bishop of Ravenna and a martyr. Tradition holds he was a disciple of St. Peter who sent him to evangelize Ravenna, Italy. Apollinaris preached courageously, performing miracles and converting many, including nobles. His success provoked persecution from pagan authorities. Apollinaris endured multiple arrests, beatings, and exiles but returned each time to continue his ministry. After years of evangelizing and establishing the Ravenna church, Apollinaris was arrested, tortured, and martyred around 79 AD. Though historical details are uncertain, Apollinaris was venerated from early times. The magnificent Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, built in the 6th century, contains remarkable mosaics and became a major pilgrimage site. He is patron saint of Ravenna.