Basilla of Rome
Basilla of Rome was a 3rd-century saint and martyr, venerated for her steadfast Christian faith. According to tradition, she was a niece of Emperor Gallienus who refused to marry a pagan patrician, leading to her martyrdom under Emperor Valerian.
- Feast Day
- May 20
- Century
- 3rd century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Basilla was a saint and martyr of the 3rd century.
- ›She was reportedly born into a Roman noble family and was a niece of Emperor Gallienus.
- ›She refused to marry Pompeius, a patrician and pagan, after converting to Christianity.
- ›She was baptized by Pope Cornelius.
- ›Her maid accused her of being a Christian, and Pompeius betrayed her to Emperor Valerian.
- ›Her feast day is may 20.
Basilissa, Babilla
About Basilla of Rome
Basilla of Rome, also known by the names Basilissa and Babilla, is recognized as a saint and martyr of the 3rd century. According to hagiographical tradition, she hailed from a Roman noble family and was reputedly a niece of the emperor Gallienus. Her martyrdom is recorded as occurring in 257 CE under the reign of the Roman emperor Valerian.
Life and Martyrdom
The central event in Basilla's narrative is her steadfast refusal to marry Pompeius, a patrician and pagan described as being of equal rank to her. After her conversion to Christianity, she was baptized by Pope Cornelius. Her commitment to her faith led to her denunciation by her own maid, and subsequently, Pompeius betrayed her to Emperor Valerian when she persisted in her refusal to marry him. This defiance resulted in her execution by beheading.
Burial and Relics
Following her martyrdom, Basilla was interred in the cemetery and catacombs of Saint Hermes, located on the Salarian Way near Rome. Hagiographer Agnes Dunbar notes that Basilla may have been buried in a cemetery she owned, which might have been named in her honor or for other martyrs interred there. In the 9th century, her remains were relocated to the Basilica of Santa Prassede. Later, in 1654, her relics were discovered and subsequently buried at the Hôtel-Dieu de Bayeux. Saint Basillia's feast day is observed on May 20.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Basilla of Rome?
Basilla of Rome, also known as Basilissa and Babilla, was a saint and martyr of the 3rd century. According to tradition, she was a Roman noble and a niece of Emperor Gallienus.
Why was Basilla martyred?
Basilla was martyred because she refused to marry Pompeius, a patrician and pagan, after converting to Christianity. Her faith and refusal led to her betrayal and beheading in 257 under Emperor Valerian.
Who baptized Basilla?
Basilla was baptized by Pope Cornelius, who was pope from 251 to 253.
Where was Basilla buried?
Basilla was initially buried in the cemetery and catacombs of Saint Hermes on the Salarian Way near Rome. Her body was later moved to the Basilica of Santa Prassede in the 9th century.
When is Basilla's feast day?
Saint Basilla's feast day is celebrated on May 20.
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