Polycarpus I of Byzantium, a revered presbyter, played a significant role in the early Christian church as the bishop of Byzantium. He succeeded Onesimus in the year sixty-nine AD, marking the beginning of a pivotal era in the region's ecclesiastical history.
His tenure as bishop lasted until his death in eighty-nine AD, spanning two decades of spiritual leadership. Notably, the last eight years of his service coincided with the reign of Emperor Domitian, a time marked by intense persecution of Christians.
Despite the challenges posed by this tumultuous period, Polycarpus I remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his flock. His legacy endures, with his relics housed in the church of Argyropouli, serving as a testament to his enduring influence and dedication to the Christian community.