St. George

Saint George (*Sanctus Georgius*, c. 275/280–303) was a Roman soldier of Greek origin who became one of Christianity's most venerated martyrs. Born in Lydda (modern Lod, Israel) to a Christian family, George rose to prominence in the Roman army under Emperor Diocletian. When the emperor ordered the persecution of Christians in 303, George openly declared his faith before the court and refused to recant. According to tradition, George was tortured over seven years using various methods, yet miraculously survived each ordeal, converting thousands through his witness. He was finally beheaded in Nicomedia on April 23, 303. His relics were taken to Lydda, where a church was built over his tomb and still stands today. The famous legend of St. George and the Dragon, in which the knight rescues a princess from a fearsome beast, emerged in the 11th century and became popular throughout medieval Europe. The story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and of faith over persecution. St. George is patron of England, Georgia, Portugal, Catalonia, Aragon, and numerous cities including Genoa and Venice. He is also patron of soldiers, cavalry, scouts, and archers. His feast day is celebrated on April 23. His red cross on a white background became the flag of England and features in many national and civic heraldic emblems. Churches dedicated to St. George are found throughout the Christian world, including the Pilgrimage Basilica of St. George in Walldürn, Germany.