Paulinus of Nola born Pontius Meropius Anicius Paulinus, was a Roman poet, writer, and senator who attained the ranks of suffect consul and governor of Campania but – following the assassination of the emperor Gratian and under the influence of his Hispanic wife Therasia of Nola — abandoned his career, was baptized as a Christian, and probably after Therasia's death became bishop of Nola in Campania. While there, he wrote poems in honor of his predecessor Saint Felix and corresponded with other Christian leaders throughout the empire. He is credited with the introduction of bells to Christian worship and helped resolve the disputed election of Pope Boniface I.
Paulinus of Nola
Line engraving of Saint Paulinus of Nola
Statue of St. Paulinus in Nola
Bas-relief of Saint Paulinus in Torregrotta
Nola is a town and a municipality in the Metropolitan City of Naples, Campania, southern Italy. It lies on the plain between Mount Vesuvius and the Apennines. It is traditionally credited as the diocese that introduced bells to Christian worship.
Nola
Samnite soldiers from a tomb in Nola 4th century BC
Greek vase showing Theseus & Prokroustes, from Nola 470–460 BC (Staatliche Antikensammlung, Munich)
A 2nd-century bronze parade mask from a Roman tomb at Nola (British Museum)