St. Florentina of Spain

Commemorated on June 20

St. Florentina was born in Carthagena, Spain, in the mid-sixth century. She was the only sister of Sts. Leander, Fulgentius and Isidore, each of whom were eventually elevated to the episcopacy.

Losing their parents at an early age, she was placed under the guardianship of her brother, St. Leander, who had since taken monastic vows. It was through his teachings and influence that she embraced the ascetic life.

She founded the convent of St. Maria de Valle near Eciji in Spain, where her brother, Fulgentius, was bishop. She later became abbess of the community.

Florentina died early in the seventh century, and is venerated as the patroness of the Diocese of Plasencia.

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