Who was Saint George?
Saint George was a Roman soldier that lived around 256-303 AD, although his birth year has been debated for many years. He was brought up as a Christian and because of his strong faith, he was tortured and beheaded under the orders of Roman Emperor Diocletian who persecuted many Christians during his reign.
What is the Story behind the Legend of George and the Dragon?
We know that dragons do not and have not ever existed, therefore, most historians believe that the dragon symbolised the devil in medieval times. The link between George and the Dragon came many years after his death and it may be his death itself that brought about the idea of him slaying the dragon, because of his refusal to give up his faith, this may be symbolised as him slaying the dragon.
Five Fast Facts
1. The dragon's name was apparently 'Ascalon' which was also the name that UK Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, used as the name of his personal aircraft during the war.
2. Saint George may be the Patron Saint of England, but in fact, St. George wasn't actually English at all. He was a Roman solider of Greek and Palestine origin.
3. Saint George is the Patron Saint of Georgia, Malta, Portugal, Romania and the areas of Catalonia and Aragon in Spain.
4. Saint George has also been declared as the protector of the British royal family.
5. He died on 23rd April 303 in his homeland of Palestine
Where to Celebrate St. Georges Day
What better way to celebrate St. George's Day than in a pub called "George and the Dragon"? Our staff in our Chester office, Bradshaw Farnham and Lea are fans of their local
George and the Dragon located on Liverpool Road.
