The skull of Saint Agnes of Rome (c. 291-304), a virgin martyr who was killed during the Diocletian persecution at the age of 12 or 13. She is one of the most venerated early Christian martyrs.
History
Saint Agnes was martyred around 304 AD, reportedly by being stabbed in the throat after surviving attempts at burning. Her skull was separated from her body and is now preserved in the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone on Piazza Navona in Rome, while her body rests in the Basilica of Sant'Agnese fuori le Mura on the Via Nomentana.
Scientific Investigation
The skull has been examined and is consistent with a young female from the Roman period. The Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone was built on the traditional site of the brothel where Agnes was exposed before her martyrdom.
Spiritual Significance
Saint Agnes is the patron saint of young girls, chastity, and the Children of Mary. Her courage in choosing death over the loss of her virginity has inspired Christians for centuries. Her feast day (January 21) includes the blessing of two lambs whose wool is used to make the pallium for new archbishops.
