Saint Martin (316-397), also known as Martin of Tours, is one of the most venerated saints in France and Western Christianity. Born in Pannonia (present-day Hungary) into a pagan family, he became a Roman soldier. Converted to Christianity as a teenager, he left the army after a famous episode in which he shared his cloak with a beggar, who turned out to be Christ in a vision.
Becoming a monk, he founded the first monastery in Gaul at Ligugé, near Poitiers. Elected Bishop of Tours in 371, he continued to live modestly while evangelizing the countryside and fighting against paganism. He is known for his miracles and his compassion for the poor. Saint Martin died on November 8, 397 in Candes, and his feast day is celebrated on November 11.
