Saint Maginus facts for kids

Statue of Saint Maginus in Santa Maria del Mar, Barcelona.

Saint Maginus (also known as San Magín in Spanish or Sant Magí in Catalan) was a holy man from Catalonia, a region in modern-day Spain. He lived as a hermit (someone who lives alone for religious reasons) in the late 200s and early 300s AD. Maginus spent much of his life near the city of Tarragona.

He became an orphan when he was young. After that, he chose to live a simple life in a cave. This cave was located on a mountain called Mount Brufaganya. He lived there as a hermit for about thirty years.

The Roman Empire and Christians

During Maginus's time, the Roman Empire ruled many lands, including Tarragona. The Roman prefect (a high-ranking official) named Dacian came to Tarragona. He was there to carry out an order from Emperor Maximian. This order meant that Christians were being persecuted, or treated very badly, for their beliefs.

Maginus's Efforts and Imprisonment

Saint Maginus tried to share his Christian faith with the Roman officials. Because of this, he was arrested and put in prison. However, a miracle happened, and he was able to escape from his cell.

After escaping, Maginus left the city through a gate. This gate is now named Sant Magí in his honor. He also built a small chapel there. After leaving the city, he went back to his cave on Mount Brufaganya.

Final Capture and Death

Later, Maginus was found and captured again in his cave. The Roman soldiers took him back to Tarragona. From there, he was moved to a place called Gaià. On August 25, 306 AD, he was beheaded (had his head cut off) there. This was because he refused to give up his Christian faith.

Legacy of Saint Maginus

Saint Maginus is remembered as a brave and holy figure. He is considered the patron saint of Tarragona. A patron saint is a special protector or guide for a place or group of people. His feast day, which is a day to celebrate him, is on August 19 each year.