Diocese of Milano remembers Santi Dionigi, vescovo, e compagni, martiri

The Diocese of Milano honors Saint Denis, a bishop, and his companions, who were martyred for their faith. Historical accounts suggest Denis was one of seven bishops sent from Rome to the Gallia region during the time of Decio around 250 to spread the Gospel.

Denis established the first Christian community in the area around Paris. The Church of Paris recognizes him as its first bishop. He was martyred by decapitation alongside the priest Eleuterio and the deacon Rustico. The presence of these companions confirms that the Church of Lutetia Parisiorum was already established at that time.

The site where Denis was martyred is the Vico Catulliaco. This location later became the site of the Saint-Denis monastery complex. The area was named Montmartre, from the Latin Mons Martyrum, meaning the hill of martyrs. Denis is recognized as the founder of the Church of France.