Anthemius of Poitiers

Anthemius of Poitiers (Anthème le Grec, Anthemius the Greek) is a hierarch of the 8th century, bishop of Poitiers and confessor, venerated in the Western Church. His commemoration is on 3 December.

According to the tradition preserved, he preached the Gospel in Saintonge and then became an itinerant bishop of Poitiers. He is said to have accompanied Emperor Charlemagne to Spain as chaplain, was taken prisoner by the Saracens and died a martyr at the Rock of Cordis at Marignac. Charlemagne is said to have carried his body to Jonzac and buried it in a sarcophagus beside the altar of the church first dedicated to him, then to Saints Gervasius and Protasius.

The account is traditional and the sources are few; it should be received with due reserve.