Biography
Eleutherius of Illyria
About Eleutherius of Illyria
Eleutherius is an ancient martyr venerated especially in southern Italy. Later tradition portrays him as a bishop and remembers his mother Antia with him.
The received Passion tells of their arrest and death, but competing versions locate the martyrdom in different cities.
The familiar title “of Illyria” arose through later interpretation of the narrative. Other readings connected his episcopal city with Aecae in Apulia.
The detailed story is a pious romance rather than a reliable life. His established cult should not be mistaken for proof of its extraordinary chronology or episodes.
Wondering how to weigh the stories and sources? Learn how to read a saint biography.