Saint Barbara (3rd century) is a legendary Christian martyr. Daughter of a wealthy pagan, Dioscorus, she was locked in a tower to protect her from outside influences. Converted to Christianity, she refused an arranged marriage and devoted her life to God. Her father, furious, handed her over to the Roman authorities. Despite the torture, she remained faithful to her faith and was finally beheaded by her own father, who was struck by lightning shortly afterwards. Saint Barbara is the patron saint of miners, firefighters, pyrotechnicians and trades related to fire and explosions. Her feast day is celebrated on December 4.
