Wooden plaque of St Lucy, Spain, 1601-1700
Many Christians have long believed that the saints are able to plead with God on their behalf and that particular saints can give protection against specific illnesses. St Lucy (283-304 CE) is the patron saint of sight and eye diseases. She lived in Syracuse, Sicily, as a Christian. She refused to marry and was martyred (killed for her beliefs). Before death her eyes were removed. A pair of eyes can be seen at the bottom of the plaque. St Lucy is also invoked against dysentery, haemorrhages and throat diseases.
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A saint believed to protect or guide a place or particular group of people.
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