Saint Minias (3rd century) is venerated as the first Christian martyr of Florence. The church of San Miniato al Monte is dedicated to him.[3] According to legend, he was an Armenian king or prince serving in the Roman Army -or making a penitential pilgrimage to Rome[2]- who had decided to become a hermit near Florence. He was denounced as a Christian and in 250 AD brought before Emperor Decius, who was persecuting Christians. Miniato refused to sacrifice to the Roman gods, and was put through … [More]