Athleta Christi

The honorary title of Athleta Christi was awarded in the 15th century by the Pope to persons who had rendered outstanding services to the military defense of Christianity against the Ottoman Empire. The recourse to the ancient Greek concept of athletes is likely related to the ancient enthusiasm in the Renaissance. Among the award winners include:

  • The Albanian prince of Kastrioten Georg Kastriota, called Skanderbeg,
  • The Hungarian military commander John Hunyadi
  • And the prince of Moldova Stefan cel Mare.
Sportsperson
85612
de