Saint Piran (Perran) (born 480, died 5th March, year unknown)Patron Saint of CornwallFeast day: 5th March Saint Piran traveled through Wales, Cornwall and Brittany, spreading the Christian faith and starting churches.It is thought that he arrived in Cornwall at Perranporth (Perran's Port), where he founded his first church and monastery in the sand hills at Perranzabuloe (Perran in the Sands)
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Perranporth Photograph © Charles Winpenny |
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His shrine at Perranzabuloe was a popular place of pilgrimage in the Middle Ages. Saint Piran's bones, bishop's crosier (staff) and copper bell were preserved there. St. Piran became the patron saint of tinners and miners, and his feast day on 5th March was celebrated in Cornwall by receiving a day off from work and a bonus of money. |
Sunset at Perranporth Photograph © Richard Rew |
The Cornish flag is known as Saint Piran's Cross - a white cross over a black background, symbolising the Christian faith shining over lies, good over evil. |
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Go back to 'Cornish Saints' |