Arsatius was an archbishop of Milan whose specific biographical details remain largely unknown. Historical accounts suggest he lived either during the 6th century or around the year 400. While some traditions link him to the famous Bishop Ambrose as a disciple, or suggest he may have been a martyr, no concrete evidence supports these claims. He is primarily recognized for his ecclesiastical role in the early Christian church in Italy.
Relics and devotion
The veneration of this saint is centered on his relics, which were transported from Rome to the Ilmmünster Monastery in 766. This movement led to the establishment of a religious cultus and the construction of the Arsatius-Basilika. Although the remains were transferred to Munich in 1495, they were eventually returned to Ilmmünster in 1846.
Commemoration
In the Catholic tradition, the memory of Arsatius is preserved through a specific liturgical celebration. His feast day is observed annually on 12 November. He is recognized within Catholic and Orthodox traditions, maintaining a connection to the pre-schism era of the church.