General presentation of Saint Barthélemy
Saint Barthélemy, also known as Nathanael in the Gospels, is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is mainly mentioned in the New Testament as a faithful disciple who traveled to evangelize different regions. Christian tradition attributes to Barthélemy a mission in India, Arabia, and Armenia. It was in Armenia that he suffered a brutal martyrdom: according to legend, he was flayed alive before being beheaded for converting King Polymius to Christianity. He is venerated as the patron saint of many trades related to leatherwork, such as tanners, butchers, and bookbinders.
Correspondence chart of Saint Barthélemy
| Role | Apostle |
| Patronage | Tanners, butchers, shoemakers |
| Feast | August 24 |
Symbols and appearances of Saint Barthélemy
Saint Barthélemy is generally depicted holding a knife, the instrument of his martyrdom, and sometimes carrying his own skin on his arms, a symbol of his torment. This depiction appears in several works of art, including Michelangelo's famous statue in the Sistine Chapel. Barthélemy's flaying is also often used for anatomical representations due to the graphic way his martyrdom exposes muscles and veins.
Myths of Saint Barthélemy
One legend tells that Barthélemy evangelized in regions where pagan practices were common, notably in Armenia, where he was arrested after converting the royal family. After his martyrdom, his relics were transported to various places, including Rome, where they are kept at the basilica San Bartolomeo all'Isola. In the Middle Ages, he became a popular intercessor, especially invoked against skin diseases and for the protection of artisans.
