Agathoclia was a Christian martyr who lived during the early third century. According to tradition, she was a slave owned by two former Christians, Nicolas and Paulina, who had returned to paganism. Despite facing frequent physical violence from her owners to force her to renounce her faith, she remained steadfast. Her refusal to abandon Christianity eventually led to a public trial before a local magistrate, where she suffered severe injuries for her convictions.
Life and death
Following her trial, Agathoclia suffered the loss of her tongue as a punishment. Historical accounts differ regarding her final moments. Some traditions suggest that her mistress, Paulina, caused her death by pouring hot coals onto her neck, while other accounts claim she was cast into a fire.
Veneration
She is recognized as the patron saint of Mequinenza in the Aragon region of Spain. The local community honors her through a dedicated confraternity and annual festivals held from September 16 to 20. Her feast day is observed on September 17 in various Christian traditions.