St. Elizabeth of Hungary

St. Elizabeth of Hungary: A Life of Royalty, Charity, and Deep Christian Love

St. Elizabeth of Hungary (1207–1231) remains one of the Church’s most beloved saints—remembered for her compassion, humility, and extraordinary service to the poor. Born into royalty but devoted to Christ above all worldly comfort, her life continues to inspire Catholics to live out the virtues of charity and sacrifice.

Early Life: A Princess With a Purpose

Elizabeth was born in 1207 in Presburg, Hungary. Her father, King Alexander II of Hungary, arranged her marriage while she was still very young. At the age of four, she was sent to Thuringia for education and preparation for her future role as wife to Louis of Thuringia.

At just 14 years old, Elizabeth married Louis, and the two shared a deep and genuine love—rare for an arranged royal marriage. Their relationship became one of mutual support, especially in her charitable works.

A Heart for the Poor: The Miracle of the Roses

Elizabeth was known for personally going out with loaves of bread to feed the poor. During one of these secret acts of charity, Louis saw her carrying something under her cape and asked to see it. When he lifted the cloak, the bread had miraculously transformed into roses.

Because of this miracle, St. Elizabeth is honored as the patroness of bakers.

Although Louis supported her mission to help the suffering, many members of the royal court—including his mother, Sophia—resented her generosity. Elizabeth was mocked by the nobility but was deeply loved by the common people. Despite the tension, Louis remained her defender. Together, they had three children.

Tragedy and Trial: The Loss of Louis

In 1227, after six years of marriage, Louis left to fight in the Crusades. On the journey, he contracted an illness and died. Elizabeth, only 20 at the time, was devastated.

Her grief was compounded by cruelty from those in the palace. Her in-laws falsely accused her of mismanaging financial affairs and expelled her and her children from their home. For a time, they found shelter only in barns, relying solely on the mercy of God and the kindness of a few.

Eventually, her uncle—the Bishop of Bamberg—provided refuge. When Louis’s companions returned from the Crusades, they helped restore Elizabeth to her rightful position. Rather than reclaim luxury, she increased her service to the poor, sick, and suffering.

A Life Fully Given to God

Elizabeth devoted herself to prayer and works of mercy. She joined the Third Order of St. Francis and lived humbly despite her royal status. She died in 1231 at the young age of 24, having given everything she had—her wealth, comfort, and even her health—to God and His people.

Canonization and Legacy

St. Elizabeth of Hungary was canonized just four years later, on 27 May 1235, by Pope Gregory IX in Perugia, Italy.

She is symbolized by a triple crown representing:

• Her royal birth

• Her role as a mother

• Her eternal crown of sainthood

Her relics—including her crowned skull—are preserved in the convent of St. Elizabeth in Vienna, Austria.

Patronages of St. Elizabeth of Hungary

St. Elizabeth is the patroness of:

• Hospitals and nurses

• Bakers

• Brides

• Countesses

• Dying children

• Exiles

• Homeless people

• Lace-makers

• Widows

• All Catholic charities

• The Third Order of St. Francis

Feast Day

Feast Day: 19 November
Titles: Princess, Widow, Mother, Member of the Third Order of St. Francis, and Apostle of the Poor