# Letters and martyrdom of Ignatius of Antioch (c. 108)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/108-letters-and-martyrdom-of-ignatius-of-antioch
Location: Antioch and Rome
Themes: Saint

Bishop Ignatius writes seven letters on his way to martyrdom in Rome, stressing the bishop's role and the unity of the church. At this point in the timeline (c. 108), the Bishop of Rome was Pope Alexander I (c. 105 – c. 115). Dates for the earliest bishops of Rome are traditional and uncertain.

## Why it matters
Letters and martyrdom of Ignatius of Antioch mattered because the life and witness of the people involved became a lasting example venerated by Christians.

Pope at the time: [Pope Alexander I](https://christianity-history.com/popes/pope-alexander-i)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Ignatius of Antioch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignatius_of_Antioch)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Letters and martyrdom of Ignatius of Antioch](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Letters+and+martyrdom+of+Ignatius+of+Antioch)
- [Wikipedia — Early Church (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ante-Nicene_period)