Crispoldus was a 1st-century Christian martyr recognized as the first bishop of Bettona in the Umbria region of Italy. According to local tradition, he was sent to Italy to preach the faith, eventually serving his diocese in Umbria. He died during the Roman era after refusing to perform sacrifices to pagan gods, an act of defiance that led to his execution. He is celebrated as the patron saint of Bettona and is honored within the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
Life and martyrdom
Legendary accounts suggest he was a disciple from Jerusalem who traveled to Italy to spread Christianity. After being consecrated as a bishop, he began preaching in his assigned territory. His activities eventually led to his arrest by Roman soldiers. Following a trial where he refused to worship Roman deities, he was subjected to torture and killed. His sister, Tutela, was also martyred alongside several other women for attempting to bury him.
Veneration
The saint is venerated in Bettona, where a church was established on the location of his death. His relics are kept in the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. A notable gilded and silver reliquary bust of the bishop resides within the transept of this historic site. His name appears in early historical documents, including records from the Assisi Cathedral dating to the 11th century.