Elizabeth of Hungary
A medieval princess who renounced royal wealth to serve the sick and poor, becoming a timeless symbol of radical Christian charity.
1207–1231 (age 24)·Hungarian princess and Christian saint·Birthday: July 7
Biography
Elizabeth of Hungary, born in 1207, lived a life of stark contrasts compressed into just 24 years. Married at 14 to Ludwig IV, the Landgrave of Thuringia, she was a beloved ruler known for her piety and generosity. Her world shattered when Ludwig died on crusade in 1227. Grief-stricken, she decisively turned away from court life, refusing a second marriage and clashing with her in-laws. Inspired by the newly founded Franciscan order, she took vows of poverty, used her dowry to build a hospital, and personally cared for the sick. This dramatic embrace of asceticism and hands-on service, rare for a woman of her stature, made her a controversial figure but also a powerful legend. Canonized just four years after her death, her story of compassion transcended her era.
#1 When Elizabeth Was Born
The biggest hits of 1207
Elizabeth's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1207Born
1212Started school
1220Became a teenager
1223Could drive
1225Could vote
1228Turned 21
1231Died at 24
Key Achievements
- Founded a hospital in Marburg, Germany, where she personally nursed patients, particularly those with leprosy.
- Was canonized as a saint by Pope Gregory IX in 1235, an extraordinarily swift process.
- Became a central patron saint of the Third Order of St. Francis, exemplifying lay piety and charitable works.
Did You Know?
The 'Miracle of the Roses' is a famous legend where bread she was secretly carrying for the poor turned into roses.
She is the patron saint of bakers, countesses, and the homeless, among others.
Her remains are enshrined in the beautiful Gothic church of St. Elizabeth in Marburg.
“I have given away all my goods for the love of God and the poor.”
