# Valerian persecution (258)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/258-valerian-persecution
Location: Rome and Carthage
Themes: Persecution

Emperor Valerian's edicts lead to the execution of Pope Sixtus II, the deacon Lawrence of Rome and Cyprian of Carthage. At this point in the timeline (10 August 258), the Bishop of Rome was Pope Sixtus II (31 August 257 – 6 August 258). His claim was contested by Antipope Novatian.

## Why it matters
Valerian persecution mattered because it shows how Christians and others suffered for faith and how violence shaped the church's memory and identity.

Pope at the time: [Pope Sixtus II](https://christianity-history.com/popes/pope-sixtus-ii)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Saint Lawrence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Lawrence)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Valerian persecution](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Valerian+persecution)
- [Wikipedia — Early Church (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ante-Nicene_period)