Maximus of Aveia

Saint Maximus of Aveia is one of the patron saints of L'Aquila, Italy.

Life

He was born in Aveia, currently known as Fossa.
As a deacon, he was martyred for his faith. Tradition says that he was tortured and then thrown over a cliff near his native city. This occurred during the persecutions of the Roman Emperor Decius.
In 1256, the episcopal seat of Aveia was moved to L'Aquila, together with the relics of Maximus.
The newly built cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of L'Aquila was dedicated in his name and that of Saint George, another martyr.