Ia of Cornwall was a 5th or 6th-century evangelist and martyr who lived in the region of St Ives. According to tradition, she was an Irish princess and the sister of Erc of Slane. After being left behind by her companions during their journey to Cornwall, she is said to have crossed the Irish Sea on a floating leaf. Upon her arrival, she joined Gwinear and Felec to spread the faith in the area.
Life and legend
Local legends describe how Ia reached Cornwall by riding a leaf that expanded as she prayed. Once there, she established an oratory in a wooded clearing. Her life ended in martyrdom on the River Hayle under the rule of King Teudar. The town of St Ives eventually developed around the site of her grave and the church built there.
Veneration
Her devotion is primarily centered in the vicinity of her patronal town. Two churches in St Ives are dedicated to her, including a Catholic church and a Church of England parish. She is also commemorated through stained glass windows in several Cornish churches and was likely honored in Brittany as well. Her feast day is observed on 3 February.