Matrona of Chios was a 15th-century Greek Orthodox nun and abbess who lived on the island of Chios. Born in the village of Volissos to a prosperous Christian family, she chose a life of celibacy and monasticism over marriage. After using her inheritance to establish a monastery in the Palaiókastro district, she was elected to lead the community. She is remembered for her deep spirituality, her extensive charity toward the poor, and her ability to heal the sick.
Life and work
After her parents permitted her to pursue religious life, Matrona founded a monastery and expanded its facilities. She sold her personal property to fund the construction of a public bath for travelers and the poor. Following the death of the previous abbess, Matrona took leadership of the convent. She spent her final days advising her fellow nuns before passing away before 1455.
Veneration
The saint is honored for her miraculous healing powers, which many believed continued after her death. Her memory is commemorated by the Orthodox Church on October 20, and on July 15 to mark the finding of her head. A monastery near Mesa Didyma, built following a dream of the saint, remains a site of devotion where her feast day is celebrated.