Saint Stephen of Hungary Print

Saint Stephen was king of Hungary from 1000 or 1001 to 1038.  He established at least one archbishopric, six bishoprics and three Benedictine monasteries. He encouraged the spread of Christianity.  Hungary enjoyed a lasting period of peace during his reign and became a preferred route for pilgrims and merchants traveling between Western Europe and the Holy Land or Constantinople.

He survived all of his children. He died on 15 August 1038 and was buried inhis new basilica, which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was canonized by Pope Gregory VII,  along with his son, Emeric, in 1083.  Stephen is the patron saint of Hungary. His feast day is August 16.