Saint Catherine of Alexandria (3rd-4th century) is a legendary Christian martyr. Noble and erudite, she defended the Christian faith against the Emperor Maxentius and convinced pagan philosophers to convert. Furious, the emperor had her imprisoned and subjected her to torture, including the wheel, which miraculously broke. Finally, she was beheaded. According to tradition, angels carried her body to Mount Sinai, where a monastery bears her name. She is the patron saint of philosophers, students and artisans, especially turners and millers. Her feast day is celebrated on November 25.
