Catervus was a 4th-century politician of senatorial rank who served as a prefect. According to Christian tradition, he was a martyr responsible for introducing the Christian faith to the city of Tolentino. He died at the age of 56, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent figure in the early Christianization of the region. His wife, Septimia Severina, commissioned a marble sarcophagus to house his remains.
Life and death
A nobleman named Flavius Julius Catervus reached the high office of prefect. He is remembered for his role in bringing Christianity to Tolentino, an action that led to his martyrdom. He passed away around the year 400, and his wife, Septimia Severina, arranged for a marble sarcophagus to be built for him and herself.
Veneration and relics
The Cathedral of San Catervo, which may stand on his original Roman mausoleum, houses his relics. His marble sarcophagus features carvings of the Adoration of the Magi and the Good Shepherd. During the 15th century, his head was moved to a reliquary, and in 1567, the remains of Catervus, his wife, and their son Basso were discovered.