Agnes of Rome

Born in Rome, Agnes was a young Christian virgin martyred during the Diocletianic persecution, probably around 304 AD. From a noble family, she refused to renounce her faith and marry, preferring to dedicate herself entirely to Christ. She was subjected to various trials to force her to apostasy, including attempts to compromise her purity, but she remained steadfast. Ultimately, she was beheaded or had her throat cut. Her cult is very ancient, attested from the 4th century. She is one of the seven virgin martyrs mentioned in the Roman Canon of the Mass. Her basilica in Rome, built over her presumed tomb, is an important pilgrimage site.