Hl. Martin

3D Model

Statue of Saint Martin at the Marktstiege in Mistelbach. The figure dates from the first half of the 18th century.

Saint Martin of Tours (c. 316–397 AD) was a Roman soldier who later became a bishop and is considered one of the most famous saints in Christianity.

According to legend, as a young soldier, Martin encountered a beggar freezing outside the gates of Amiens. He divided his cloak with his sword and gave half to the man to protect him from the cold. The following night, Christ appeared to him in a dream, dressed in that very piece of cloak – a sign of his charity. Martin was later baptized, left military service, and lived as a monk before being elected bishop of Tours. He was considered modest and close to the people, and he stood up for the poor and weak.

His feast day is November 11—St. Martin’s Day, when lantern parades and bonfires take place in many places.