Polycarp was a prominent early Christian bishop of Smyrna, a city in present-day Turkey. He is believed to have lived from around 69 to 155 AD and is known for his strong leadership in the early Christian community. Polycarp is often remembered for his steadfast faith and his role in combating heresies during a time of persecution against Christians. He is also famous for his martyrdom, as he was executed for refusing to renounce his faith. His story is documented in the "Martyrdom of Polycarp," which is one of the earliest accounts of a Christian martyr. Polycarp is considered a saint in various Christian traditions, including Catholicism and Orthodoxy.