Anthusa of Constantinople was a Byzantine nun born in the mid-eighth century, the daughter of Emperor Constantine V. Although her father initially pressured her to marry, she chose a life of monasticism instead. After the emperor's death, she dedicated her wealth to supporting orphans and the impoverished. She eventually established the Omonoia Monastery in Constantinople, which was noted for its disciplined way of life. She is recognized as a saint in both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions.
Life and devotion
Following her father's passing, Anthusa declined an offer from Empress Irene to serve as co-regent. While she maintained the outward appearance of imperial status at court, she secretly wore a hair-shirt to practice asceticism. After being tonsured by Patriarch Tarasios, she founded the Omonoia Monastery. This institution, which signifies concord or charity, followed very strict religious regulations.
Veneration
Anthusa is honored as a saint in the Catholic Church, where she serves as a patroness for abbeys and convents. In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, she is remembered as Saint Anthousa the Younger. Her feast days are observed on 18 April in the Catholic Church, while the Orthodox Church commemorates her on 12 and 18 April.