The Four Crowned Martyrs
July 7
The designation Four Crowned Martyrs or Four Holy Crowned Ones actually refers to nine individuals venerated as martyrs and saints in the Catholic Church. The nine saints are divided into two groups:
- Claudius, Castorius, Symphorian (Simpronian), Nicostratus, and Simplicius
- Severus (or Secundius), Severian(us), Carpophorus (Carpoforus), Victorinus (Victorius, Vittorinus)
According to the Golden Legend, the names of the members of the first group were not known at the time of their death "but were learned through the Lord’s revelation after many years had passed." They were called the "Four Crowned Martyrs" because their names were unknown ("crown" referring to the crown of martyrdom).
Castorius, Claudius, Nicostratus and Symphorian were tortured and slain in Pannonia (modern Black Sea region), having been carvers from Sirmium (former Yugoslavia). The refused to carve a pagan statue and were martyred by retired co-Emperor Diocletian. A martyr named Simplicius died with them. The second group of Four Holy Crowned Noes died at Albano, Italy. They were Carpophorus, Secundius, Severian, and Victorinus. A basilica was built in their honor in Rome. Their feast days are on various dates, including July 7.
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