Fusca of Ravenna was a young martyr who died around 250 AD during the Decian persecution. Born to a nobleman, she was raised by a slave named Maura, who also shared her Christian faith. After being baptized by the priest Ermolar, the two women were reported to a local judge by Fusca's father. This led to their execution on February 13, 250, at which time Fusca was approximately 15 years old. She is recognized as a saint within the Roman Catholic tradition.
Life and death
Fusca grew up in a noble household, where she was cared for by her nurse, Maura. Following their baptism, the pair remained faithful to their new religion. Their commitment resulted in a death sentence handed down by a judge after her father reported them. They were both martyred together on the same day.
Veneration and legacy
Following her death, her burial site attracted pilgrims. To protect her remains from invasions, her body was moved to Torcello island. A church was built over her grave in the 12th century, and several other churches in Istria are dedicated to her. In Croatia, she is known as Foška, and a painting of her exists in Bethlehem.