Armentarius of Pavia was an 8th-century Catholic bishop who led the diocese of Pavia from 711 until his death in 732. Born in the Kingdom of the Lombards, he succeeded Bishop Damian. His tenure was defined by a significant jurisdictional conflict with Benedict, the Bishop of Milan. While Milan claimed authority over Pavia, Armentarius successfully argued that his see was directly subject to Rome, a position supported by Pope Constantine.
Ecclesiastical dispute
The primary historical significance of his rule involved a struggle for independence from the Metropolitan See of Milan. Armentarius maintained that Pavia should answer directly to the papacy rather than to Milanese authority. Because Pavia served as the capital of the Lombard Kingdom, Pope Constantine eventually ruled in favor of Armentarius, securing the diocese's direct connection to Rome.
Veneration and memory
Recognized as a saint, he is commemorated annually on January 30. His remains are interred in the Pavia Cathedral, where his tomb attracted many pilgrims who sought his powerful intercession. Although some traditions link him to the movement of Saint Augustine's relics, historians suggest this event likely took place under his successor, Peter.