Mattia Ciccarelli was an Italian Augustinian nun born in 1481 in Lucoli. Known in religious life as Cristina, she joined the convent of Santa Lucia in Aquileia during the early 16th century. She is remembered for her deep spirituality, which included experiencing ecstasies and receiving the stigmata. Throughout her life, she maintained a humble character and was recognized for her significant charity toward the impoverished people living in the Abruzzo region.
Life and spirituality
After following the guidance of a Franciscan priest, she entered the Augustinian order in 1505. During her time as an abbess, she was noted for her prophetic visions. She reportedly experienced levitation and received the wounds of Christ on Good Friday. Ciccarelli also encouraged devotion to several saints, including Mark the Evangelist and Martin of Tours, following spiritual encounters.
Veneration
Following her death in 1543, she was honored with widespread local devotion. This popularity led Pope Gregory XVI to officially approve her beatification in 1841. She is currently recognized as a saint in the Catholic tradition, with her feast day observed on 18 January.