Saint Petronilla, also known as Saint Petronille, is a Christian saint who is believed to have lived in the 1st century AD. While her exact historical details are uncertain, she is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church.
According to tradition, Saint Petronilla was the daughter of Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. It is believed that she accompanied Peter to Rome and served as a faithful disciple and witness to the early Christian faith.
The details of her life are limited, but it is said that Petronilla devoted herself to a life of prayer and charity. She became known for her piety, humility, and dedication to the teachings of Christ.
There are different accounts regarding her martyrdom. Some sources suggest that Petronilla died a natural death, while others claim that she was persecuted for her Christian beliefs and died as a martyr. Regardless, her veneration as a saint grew over time.
Saint Petronilla is particularly honored in Rome, where she is considered one of the city’s patron saints. Her tomb is said to have been located on the Via Ardeatina, outside the city walls. A basilica dedicated to her, known as the Basilica of Saint Petronilla, was built near her burial site in the 4th century.
In art, Saint Petronilla is often depicted as a young woman, sometimes holding a palm branch or a key, symbolizing her devotion and purity. Her feast day is celebrated on May 31st in the Roman Catholic Church, although her cult is not as widely observed as some other saints.
While historical details about Saint Petronilla are limited, her memory and veneration continue to inspire devotion and reverence among those who honor her as a faithful disciple of Christ.