Marco di Atina was a first-century bishop and hieromartyr who served as a disciple of the apostle Peter. Following his appointment to the episcopacy, he traveled to preach throughout the regions of Campania, Chocaria, and Marsica. He eventually met his death in Atina during the reign of Emperor Domitian. He is sometimes identified with Saint Mark of Puglia, though he is traditionally known as the Galilean.
Life and death
As a follower of Peter, Marco dedicated his ministry to spreading the faith across several Italian territories. His service as a bishop concluded when he was martyred in Atina under the rule of Domitian. Although his remains were lost for a time after the original church built over his grave fell into ruin, his historical presence in the region remains significant.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated on April 28, and in Atina, he is also honored on October 1. In the middle of the eleventh century, Bishop Leo recovered the saint's body and placed it within the Cathedral of the Assumption. This occurred while a dedicated temple in his honor was being restored.