Saint Agatha is the patron saint of the city of Catania. Persecuted after rejecting the Roman governor Quintianus-having consecrated her life to the Christian religion-she was martyred on February 5, 251. To the "Santuzza," venerated as a saint, virgin and martyr, is dedicated one of the most beautiful and impressive religious festivals in the world, celebrated between Feb. 3 and 5, in which faith and folklore are mixed. The bust of the saint, which contains part of the relics and is carried in procession on the ferculum, was made in the 14th century: made entirely of silver, it is covered with more than 300 jewels and votive offerings made of precious stones, some of which were donated by famous historical figures,the value of which has been declared priceless.