Amphibalus is a venerated early Christian priest said to have converted Saint Alban to Christianity. He occupied a place in British hagiography almost as revered as Alban himself. According to many hagiographical accounts, including those of Gildas, Bede, Geoffrey of Monmouth, and Matthew of Paris, Amphibalus was a Roman Christian fleeing religious persecution under Emperor Diocletian. Amphibalus was offered shelter by Alban in the Roman city of Verulamium, in modern-day England. Alban was so impressed with the priest's faith and teaching that he began to emulate him in worship, and eventually became a Christian himself. When Roman soldiers came to seize Amphibalus, Alban put on Amphibalus' robes and was punished in his place. According to Matthew Paris, after Alban's martyrdom, the Romans eventually caught and martyred Amphibalus as well.
Saint Amphibalus baptising converts
The martyrdom of St Amphibalus from a 13th-century manuscript of The Life of St Alban by Matthew Paris (Dublin, Trinity College Library)
Saint Alban is venerated as the first-recorded British Christian martyr, for which reason he is considered to be the British protomartyr. Along with fellow Saints Julius and Aaron, Alban is one of three named martyrs recorded at an early date from Roman Britain. He is traditionally believed to have been beheaded in Verulamium sometime during the 3rd or 4th century, and has been celebrated there since ancient times.
Saint Alban
Stained glass in St Albans Cathedral in England, showing the death of Saint Alban
The martyrdom of St Alban, from a 13th-century manuscript written and illustrated by Matthew Paris, now in Trinity College Library, Dublin; note the executioner's eyes falling out of his head
Martyrdom of Amphibalus from the Trinity College Life of St Alban
