Historical Figure
Atticus
d. 425
Archbishop of Constantinople from 406 to 425
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Biography
Atticus of Constantinople was an archbishop of Constantinople, succeeding to the episcopal throne in March 406. He is known for having been an opponent of John Chrysostom whom he helped depose, and having rebuilt the small church that was located on the site of the later Hagia Sophia. He was an opponent of the Pelagians, which helped increase his popularity among the citizens of Constantinople, and he contributed to the theological framework for the developing cult of the Virgin Mary.
Timeline
The story of Atticus, told in moments.
Supported the Synod of the Oak that deposed John Chrysostom from the See of Constantinople. Chrysostom was the city's most popular preacher. Atticus chose the winning side anyway.
Became Archbishop of Constantinople, succeeding the short-lived Arsacius. The see had been in turmoil since Chrysostom's exile three years prior.
Reversed course and added Chrysostom's name to the diptychs of the church, effectively rehabilitating the man he'd helped remove. Pragmatism over principle.
Persuaded Emperor Theodosius II to grant Constantinople authority over episcopal appointments in surrounding provinces. Extended his patriarchal reach across Thrace and into Asia Minor.
Died after 19 years as Archbishop. Left behind a stronger, more centralized see. Later recognized as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Artifacts (15)
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