When we think of Pamplona, many of us associate the city with San Ferminthe saint who gives his name to the famous bullfighting festivals. However, this Friday the Navarrese capital celebrates another very important date, Valentine’s Day. Its patron saint, Saint Saturnin.
Why yes, even if San Fermin He has a place in the hearts of all the inhabitants of Pamplona and many mistakenly think that he is the patron saint of the city, the truth is that the The official patron saint of Pamplona is San Saturnino. This saint is less known, but his story is deeply rooted in the faith and tradition of the Navarrese capital. This fact surprises more than one, but it has a historical and religious explanation which deserves to be known.
Saint Saturninalso known as Saint-Cerninit was a Christian bishop and martyr who lived in the 3rd century. According to tradition, this saint, originally from Toulouse (France), played a crucial role in the Christianization of the region. He was responsible for evangelizing a large part of Gaul and, according to what is said, he arrived in Pamplona accompanied by his disciples, including San Honesto and San Fermín.
Legend says that Saint Saturnin He baptized several of the first Christians of Pamplona in a small well located next to the current church that bears his name, the Saint-Saturnin Church. One of these Christians was Saint Fermín himself, who would later become the first bishop of Amiens and martyr of the Church.
Saint Saturninus, protector of Pamplona
Saint Saturnin He not only brought Christianity to Pamplona, but, according to tradition, he protected the city and its inhabitants. This connection to faith and protection of the community has led the inhabitants of Pamplona to adopt him as their patron since ancient times.
He cult of Saint Saturnin It was consolidated in the Middle Ages, when faith and popular beliefs had a decisive weight in local traditions. In his honor, the Saint-Saturnin Churchone of the most important temples in the city and an emblematic point for the inhabitants of Pamplona.
And San Fermin?
San Fermindespite its current fame, It did not always have the importance it has today. Although he is a much loved and revered saint, especially for the festivities of San Fermín, his patron cult appeared later. In fact, his figure became popular especially in the 16th century, when festivals in his honor began to gain notoriety. At present, San Fermín is co-patron of Navarre next to San Francisco Javier.
On the other hand, the election of Saint Saturninus as patron saint This further responds to his role in the religious history of Pamplona, as an evangelizer of the region. San Fermín, on the other hand, has a more universal character as a symbol of the city, but not as its official protector.
The celebration of Saint Saturnin
Every November 29, Pamplona pays homage to its patron saint with a celebration which, although more discreet than the San Fermín festivities, has great value for the local community. During this day, a procession takes place from the church of San Saturnino to the cathedral of Pamplona. Events include Eucharists, musical and cultural events that highlight the historical and spiritual importance of this saint to the city.
The date coincides with Martyrdom of Saint Saturninwho, according to tradition, was executed in Toulouse after refusing to participate in a pagan ritual. His unwavering faith made him a model of courage and dedication, values that the people of Pamplona continue to remember.
Two saints, one heart
Although San Saturnino is officially the patron saint of PamplonaSan Fermín holds a special place in the hearts of Pamplona residents. The two saints symbolize the identity of the city and its history, combining Christian tradition with the festive and universal character that so characterizes Pamplona.
So, while San Fermín invites us to celebrate and share the joy of the holidays, Saint Saturnin reminds us of the origins and the faith that shaped the city. Two different figures, but essential to understand the essence of Pamplona.
