Slave Anastacia

Escrava Anastácia is a popular folk saint venerated in Brazil. An enslaved woman of African descent, Anastácia is depicted as possessing incredible beauty, having piercing blue eyes and wearing a punitive iron facemask. Although not officially recognized by the Catholic Church, Anastácia is an important figure in popular Catholic devotion throughout Brazil, where her feast day is celebrated on May 12. She is also venerated by members of the Umbanda and Kardecist traditions. She has been portrayed in Brazil in books, radio programs, and a highly successful television miniseries bearing her name.