Codice prodotto: L10339
Memorial Day: May 4
When did Saint Florian live: 3rd century AD
BIOGRAPHY:
Saint Florian was a Roman officer who lived in the 3rd century AD in the province of Ufer-Noricum, present-day Austria. He was responsible for the firefighting troops of the Roman army and is one of the most well-known early Christian martyrs. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, St. Florian openly professed his Christian faith and sought to protect persecuted Christians. This led to his arrest. After refusing to renounce his faith, he was tortured and finally, on May 4, 304, was thrown into the River Enns with a millstone tied around his neck. His body was later recovered and enshrined. The veneration of St. Florian quickly spread, and he became known as the protector against fire and water-related disasters.
PATRONAGE:
St. Florian is the patron saint of firefighters, chimney sweeps, brewers, and bakers. He is also invoked as a protector against fire, drought, storms, and floods.
SYMBOLISM, DEPICTION:
The symbols of Saint Florian are a bucket of water, with which he extinguishes a fire, and a flag, representing his military background. He is also often depicted wearing armor, emphasizing his role as a Roman officer. A model of a burning church symbolizes his protection over buildings and people from fire.
PATRON SAINT OF:
Florian, Floriano, Florence, Florent, Florianus, Florentio, Florián, Fieron, Florestan, Floro, Floriaan, Fiorenzo, Floris, Fiorino, Flavio, Flo, Fio, Loriano, Lorenz, Lorenzo.