Agatha of Sicily
Agatha of Sicily (c. 231 – c. 251 AD) is an early Christian virgin and martyr. Her feast is on 5 February; traditionally, it is considered the last date by which one can send New Year's greetings.
Agatha was born in Catania, part of the Roman Province of Sicily, and was martyred c. 251. She is one of several virgin martyrs who are commemorated by name in the Canon of the Mass.
Agatha is the patron saint of Catania, Molise, Malta, San Marino, Gallipoli in Apulia, and Zamarramala, a municipality of the Province of Segovia in Spain.
Patron saint of Catania (Sicily), Gallipoli, Apulia; bellfounding
In the Martyrology
- February 5 Saint Agatha, virgin and martyr