Saint Lucia's eye in Corsica

Significance and origin of the eye of Saint Lucia

The representation of Saint Lucia's eye refers to the martyrdom of Lucia of Syracuse - Patron Saint of several Corsican villages - in the 6th century. Legend has it that the beauty of her eyes prevented her executioner from confronting her gaze, and he had them gouged out.

Her devotion to God was a source of admiration for believers throughout the Mediterranean region, Syracuse being an Italian city in the heart of the Mediterranean in Sicily.

Eye of Saint Lucy - The jewel

The Oeil de Sainte Lucie is the name given to the operculum of the rough aster, a shellfish widely found in the Mediterranean. Its white operculum forms a spiral reminiscent of the cycles of time also represented during the Granìtula, while its coral-red face evokes the Virgin and Child.

Measuring between 2 and 3 cm, the operculum allows the shell to close; if removed, it will reform once back in the water.

L'ochju di Santa Lucia - Symbolism and ritual

Saint Lucia is considered the protector of the eyes, and the Latin etymology of the proper name Lucia means "Light", which brings with it a wealth of symbolism for eye diseases. This belief is widespread on the island, where the water from certain fountains was used to rinse the eyes and rid them of impurities. In fact, a spring named l'ochju di Santa Lucia at Ciamanaccia in the Taravu region was used for this purpose during the procession.

In Corsica, Saint Lucia's eye is said to ward off the evil eye, and is one of the illustrations of the interweaving of ancient island mysticism and religion.

Saint Lucia's eye in Lithotherapy

What if the St. Lucia eye you wear around your neck really did have power over you? That's the argument of those who practice lithotherapy, an unconventional science for some, an alternative for others, which uses the supposed virtues of crystals, stones and other minerals like the St. Lucia Eye.