Ferriol de Limoges was a prelate who served as the bishop of Limoges during the late 6th century. Born in Aquitaine, he was elected to his position following a pilgrimage to Rome. During his leadership, he worked to mediate civil unrest caused by Merovingian kings and oversaw the reconstruction of the Saint Martin basilica in Brive after it was destroyed by fire. He also participated in the Council of Mâcon in 585 to address ecclesiastical discipline and the protection of the vulnerable.
Life and work
As a contemporary of Gregory of Tours, Ferriol played an active role in the regional church. He attended the Council of Mâcon, where he helped advocate for Sunday worship and episcopal responsibilities. His career included presiding over the funeral of Saint Yrieix in 591. He died between 591 and 597, leaving a legacy of service during a turbulent period in Aquitaine.
Veneration
Following his death, the local population recognized him as a saint. He is commemorated in both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions on September 18. In Nexon, a 14th-century statue representing the head of the saint is kept and displayed during the Limousin Ostensions every seven years.