Maternus of Cologne
Maternus (c. 285 – September 14, 315 AD), also known as Maternus II, was the first known bishop of Cologne, reportedly also the third bishop of Trier, and founder of the diocese of Tongeren. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.
Born~Died date unknown ~ 328Last edited Oct 15, 2026, 5:56 PM
Details
- Born ~ Died
- date unknown ~ 328
- Born
- c. 285
- Died
- September 14, 315
- Venerated in
- Catholic Church Eastern Orthodox Church
- Feast
- September 14
Maternus (c. 285 – September 14, 315 AD), also known as Maternus II, was the first known bishop of Cologne,1 reportedly also the third bishop of Trier, and founder of the diocese of Tongeren. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. The Basilica of Saint Maternus in Walcourt, Belgium was allegedly founded by him.
Life
According to Eusebius, Bishop Maternus was active during the period of the Donatist controversy. In May 313, Maternus and other bishops were summoned to Rome by Emperor Constantine to consult regarding the status of Bishop Caecilianus of Carthage. He also took part in the Synod of Arles in 314.2 While a legend grew in Trier concerning Maternus, a popular cult developed in Cologne.3
The Bollandists and others date his Episcopate to the fourth century. He was the first Apostle of Alsace, and successfully promoted the spread of Christianity in that Province and in Western Germany.4
Until the discovery of the Frankfurt silver inscription, dated to between 230 and 270, Maternus' participation in the Synod of Rome in 313 was the earliest reliable evidence for Christianity north of the Alps.5
Legend
This page is based on “Maternus of Cologne” from English Wikipedia, (r1370919393) CC BY-SA 4.0 used under the license. The original authors are listed in its page history.
Last edited Oct 15, 2026, 5:56 PM · r142735 · Text is available under CC BY-SA 4.0.