In what year was Saint Lucia martyred?

Saint Lucy was martyred in 304, during the Roman emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. She was killed in Syracuse, Sicily, traditionally on December 13, the date now associated with Saint Lucy’s Day.

Lucy is remembered as a Christian virgin who chose to dedicate her life and wealth to helping the poor. According to later accounts, a rejected suitor denounced her to the authorities. Legends describe several failed attempts to kill her before she was finally executed with a sword.

The historical record is limited, and many colorful details of Lucy’s life come from later medieval writings rather than contemporary evidence. Her veneration nevertheless spread widely: by the sixth century, she was known beyond Sicily, and she became especially associated with eyesight because of stories involving her eyes.

A common mix-up is confusing Lucy’s death date with the date of the modern Swedish Lucia celebration. December 13 is the feast day, while 304 is the traditional year of her martyrdom.