Romulus of Genoa was a 4th and 5th-century bishop and theologian who served the Christian community in Genoa. During his life, he eventually left the city and sought refuge in a cave located at Villa Matutiae, a settlement on the Italian Riviera. He passed away in this cave, which later became known as Sanremo. Recognized as a saint in Catholic and Orthodox traditions, he is remembered for his early leadership within the church during a period of historical uncertainty.
Life and death
While his exact dates are not precisely known, Romulus lived during the late 4th and early 5th centuries. After leaving his post in Genoa, he resided in a cave at Villa Matutiae. This location eventually took his name, evolving from the historical Villa Matutiae into the modern town of Sanremo. He died in this coastal area around the year 500.
Veneration and memory
His remains were moved to Genoa in 876 by Bishop Sabbatinus and placed in the church of San Siro. In religious art, he is often shown wearing episcopal clothing while holding a sword, a depiction stemming from local requests to invoke his protection against attackers. His feast day is traditionally observed on October 13, though the Archdiocese of Genoa celebrates him on November 6 alongside other early bishops.