A portrait of St. Irene of Portugal
St. Irene of Portugal
c. 635 – 653
Feast
October 20 · VII c.
Patron of
Tomar · Young women · Victims of slander
Order
Virgin / Martyr
Portuguese virgin martyr (c. 635-653), Visigothic-era nun of Nabantia (modern Tomar) drugged by a rejected suitor, accused of unchastity when an apparent pregnancy ensued, and killed; her body was thrown into the Nabão river, miraculously preserved, and recovered downstream at Scallabis (whose name was changed in her honor to Santarém - "Santa Iria"). Pre-Congregation cultus.
Life & Times
Born: c. 635 · Died: 653 · From: Portugal.
Patronage
St. Irene of Portugal is invoked as the patron of tomar, young women, victims of slander. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Irene of Portugal, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Irene of Portugal, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.