Aurée was a 5th-century bishop and the first named leader of the see of Mainz. Originally from the Rhone-Loire region, he served the community during a period of significant migratory unrest. According to historical traditions and early church writings, he was killed alongside his sister, Justina, during a raid by the Huns. His leadership and subsequent martyrdom established him as a foundational figure in the Christian history of the Mainz region.
Life and death
As the first recorded bishop of Mainz, his biography relies on early church records and later legends. Tradition suggests he was once expelled from the city for his opposition to Arianism, only to return later to resume his duties. Most accounts indicate he and Justina were martyred on June 16 during a Hun raid, with historical estimates for this event ranging from the early to mid-5th century.
Veneration and legacy
He is traditionally honored in the Diocese of Mainz, where a chapel was once built on the site of his martyrdom. His relics were later moved to Heilbad Heiligenstadt, where he and the deacon Justinus are venerated as patron saints. He remains commemorated on June 16, and several churches bear his name.