“Was he really that brave?” a young tourist whispers. The Vitale di Milano Statue stands as a testament to unwavering faith and courage. This statue represents San Vitale. He was a martyr who lived in the 3rd century AD.
San Vitale is closely associated with Sant’Agricola. Both were residents of Bologna. Despite their different social statuses, Vitale was Agricola’s servant. They shared a strong Christian faith. This faith led them to a tragic end.
Vitale openly professed his Christian faith. He was imprisoned. Thrown into an arena he endured torture. He refused to renounce his beliefs. Agricola witnessed Vitale’s bravery. Inspired by his servant’s courage, Agricola chose to face the same fate. He became a martyr by crucifixion.
The original statue of San Vitale was sculpted in 1809. Donato Carabelli was the artist. Sadly, bombing in Milan destroyed it in 1943. A copy replaced the original. Mario Bassetti created this copy in the mid-1900s. You can find it crowning a spire. It is near the statue of Sant’Agricola. This placement symbolizes their special bond.
A statue of Vitalis is one of those on the colonnade of St Peter’s Basilica.
Legend says Vitalis was a wealthy Milanese citizen. Some say he was a soldier. He married Valeria of Milan. They were parents to Gervasius and Protasius. Vitalis accompanied Judge Paulinus from Milan to Ravenna. He encouraged Ursicinus of Ravenna to stay strong during his execution. Vitalis gave Ursicinus an honorable burial.
Eventually, people discovered Vitalis was a Christian. Paulinus ordered his torture. He was thrown into a pit. They covered him with stones and earth. Historians are unsure of the exact date of his martyrdom. Some believe it was during Nero’s reign. Others say it was under Marcus Aurelius. He was martyred in Ravenna.
Vitalis is the main patron saint of Ravenna. His feast day is April 28. Churches honor him in Assisi, Rome, and Zadar. The Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna is the most famous. It stands on the site of his martyrdom. He is also the patron saint of Granarolo and Marittima in Italy.
Consider San Vitale’s unwavering commitment. Remember his courage in the face of adversity. The Vitale di Milano Statue immortalizes a man of profound faith. His story continues to inspire.