Donatus of Evorea was a 4th-century priest and bishop from Epirus Vetus, a region in northwestern Greece. Living during the era of Emperor Theodosius I, he is remembered for his various legendary feats, including the slaying of a dragon and the restoration of life to the deceased. His life and ministry were centered in Euroea, which is identified with modern-day Glyki. He is honored as a saint in both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions, particularly within Greece and Albania.
Life and miracles
As a religious leader, Donatus is credited with several miraculous actions, such as purifying water sources and saving the daughter of an emperor. Historical accounts from the 5th century suggest he served as the bishop of Euroea. Following his death in 387, his remains were moved to Corfu in 602 to protect them from barbarian raids, an event that eventually required the mediation of Pope Gregory I regarding their custody.
Veneration and legacy
The devotion to Donatus was extensive throughout the Middle Ages. His influence reached southern Italy, where the Umbriatico Cathedral is dedicated to him due to the presence of Epirote troops in the 9th century. Although his relics were later taken by Venetians from Cephalonia in the 12th century, his feast day remains April 30.