Antonius Magnus

Eventa vitae

1. Tonsured — 269

   After hearing Matthew 19:21, distributed inheritance and began ascetic life in his village.

2. Other — 285

   Retreated to abandoned Roman fort at Pispir for 20 years of solitary prayer; disciples gathered outside — beginning of organized Christian monasticism.

3. Pilgrimage — 311

   Traveled to Alexandria during the Diocletianic persecution to encourage martyrs; offered himself for martyrdom but was spared.

4. Other — 313

   Withdrew to the "Inner Mountain" near the Red Sea for final decades; site is now the Monastery of St Anthony.

5. Pilgrimage — 338

   Visited Alexandria at Athanasius's invitation to preach against Arianism.

6. Died — 356

   Died in his cave at the Inner Mountain. Per his instructions, burial place kept secret to prevent relic cult.

Relationes