Martinian and Processus

Who they were

Processus and Martinian are buried at the second mile of the Via Aurelia in Rome, near today's basilica of St Pancras. Tradition holds that they were the jailers of Sts Peter and Paul in the Mamertine prison, were converted and baptised by the apostles, and were then martyred.

Historians have doubts: the story may have grown from the scenes carved on their sarcophagus, showing Peter striking water from the rock, Peter among the guards, and Peter with Christ.

The miracles

There was never a formal cause: they have been honoured as martyrs of Rome since the early centuries.

Why that counted as sanctity

Whatever the historical uncertainties, their witness has strengthened many Christians to stand firm in the faith even to the gift of their lives.