St George is one of the most enduring figures in Christian tradition, revered as a martyr and the patron saint of England. Though much of his life is wrapped in legend, it’s generally believed that George was a Roman soldier born in the 3rd century in Cappadocia, a region in modern-day Turkey. He served under Emperor Diocletian but refused to renounce his Christian faith during a time of intense persecution. For this, he was tortured and ultimately executed, dying around the year 303.

The most famous legend surrounding St George is that of him slaying a dragon. According to the tale, a town was being terrorized by a dragon, and in a bid to appease it, the townspeople offered it sheep, and eventually, their own children. When a princess was chosen to be sacrificed, George intervened, tamed the dragon, and killed it, saving the princess and converting the town to Christianity. While clearly mythical, the story symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and faith over fear.

St George’s cult spread rapidly across Europe during the Middle Ages, and he became a symbol of chivalry and courage. He was adopted as the patron saint of England in the 14th century by Edward III, and his red cross on a white background became a national emblem. His feast day, April 23rd, is still celebrated in many countries. Despite the blurred lines between fact and legend, St George’s legacy remains one of steadfast faith and heroic virtue.