Felicula
Felicula was a Roman martyr, likely from the fourth century, whose relics were gifted by Pope Gregory I to Bishop John of Ravenna around 592 AD. She is commemorated in the Roman Martyrology on June 13th, marking her martyrdom on the Via Ardeatina.
- Feast Day
- June 13
- Century
- 1st century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Felicula was a Roman martyr, likely from the fourth century.
- ›Her relics were given to Bishop John of Ravenna by Pope Gregory I circa 592 AD.
- ›She is listed in the Roman Martyrology on June 13th.
- ›Her traditional place of martyrdom is the seventh milestone from Rome on the Via Ardeatina.
- ›The Acts of Saints Nereus and Achilleus romanticize her as an early virgin martyr who died around 90 AD.
- ›In legend, she was the foster sister of Saint Petronilla and died of starvation and thirst in prison.
About Felicula
Felicula: Roman Martyr
Felicula is recognized as a Roman martyr, likely active in the fourth century. Her historical significance is marked by the transfer of her relics, which Pope Gregory I gifted to Bishop John of Ravenna around 592 AD. She is officially noted in the Roman Martyrology on June 13th, with her memorial placed on the seventh milestone from Rome on the Via Ardeatina.
Hagiographical Accounts
The heavily romanticized Acts of Saints Nereus and Achilleus present a more elaborate narrative, portraying Felicula as one of the earliest virgin martyrs. This tradition dates her death to approximately 90 AD. In this legend, she is depicted as the foster sister of Saint Petronilla. Her arrest followed Petronilla's refusal to marry a Roman official. The legend further recounts that after Petronilla's death, Felicula was imprisoned without sustenance and eventually died in a sewer. Her body was reportedly recovered by Saint Nicomedes.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Saint Felicula martyred?
According to the heavily romanticized Acts of Saints Nereus and Achilleus, Saint Felicula's death is assigned to about 90 AD. However, historical assessment suggests she was likely a fourth-century martyr.
Where is Saint Felicula commemorated?
Saint Felicula is mentioned in the Roman Martyrology on June 13th. The inscription notes her martyrdom on the seventh milestone from the city of Rome on the Via Ardeatina.
What is the legendary account of Saint Felicula's death?
In legend, Felicula was the foster sister of Saint Petronilla and was arrested after Petronilla refused to marry a Roman official. After Petronilla's death, Felicula was left without food and water in prison and eventually died after being thrown into a sewer.
Who transferred Saint Felicula's relics?
Pope Gregory I gave the relics of Saint Felicula to Bishop John of Ravenna. This event is recorded as occurring in about 592 AD.
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