Saint George

George is one of the most widely venerated saints of East and West, though few facts of his life are certain. Ancient tradition holds that he was a Christian soldier of Cappadocian origin who served in the Roman army and was martyred at Lydda, in Palestine, around 303, during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian, after refusing to deny his faith. His tomb at Lydda, today's Lod, became a place of pilgrimage very early.

The famous story of George slaying a dragon to rescue a princess and her town, after which the people were baptized, spread widely in the Middle Ages through the Golden Legend. It became a vivid image of courage, faith and the victory of good over evil. Crusaders brought his devotion back to Western Europe, and he became patron of England, Georgia, Catalonia, Aragon and many cities and military orders.

In Catalonia, April 23 is Sant Jordi, a beloved day when people exchange roses and books, tied to the legend that a rose grew from the dragon's blood. England celebrates its patron with flags of Saint George's cross.

In Brazil, São Jorge is hugely popular, honored with Masses, processions and fireworks, especially in Rio de Janeiro, where April 23 is a holiday. Many believers wear his medal for protection.