Narnus was an early Christian bishop who served the community in Bergamo during the fourth century. Born in Ogna around 201, he is recognized as the first leader of the local church. While some traditions suggest he was consecrated by Saint Barnabas, historical accounts, such as those from the thirteenth-century friar Branca da Gandino, place his episcopate during the reign of Diocletian. He died in Bergamo in 345 and is honored as a saint within the Catholic tradition.
Historical accounts
The earliest written records regarding Narnus appear in the thirteenth century. The friar Branca da Gandino provided one of the oldest accounts, identifying him as a bishop during the era of Diocletian. Although local tradition attempts to link his consecration to the Apostolic Age through Saint Barnabas, historical evidence suggests he lived later than that period.
Veneration and relics
Narnus was originally interred in the crypt of a church dedicated to Saint Alexander of Bergamo. Following the demolition of that building in 1561, his remains were moved along with those of his successor, Saint Viator. They were transferred to the church of San Vincenzo, which serves as the cathedral of Bergamo, where his relics remain today.