​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Often presumed to be of English heritage, St George was actually born in Cappadocia (modern day Turkey) and it is thought he might never have even visited England! At the time, Diocletian was persecuting Christians, and George (Georgios) is said to have refused to give up his Christian faith despite the fate that awaited him. Believed to have been executed for his refusal to take part in a pagan ritual, St George is said to have died in 303AD in Lydda (Israel). His reputation for virtue spread across Europe and his feast day has been celebrated annually from the 9th century onwards, on April 23rd, the date of his death.
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​​​​​​​Where is St George's day celebrated?

​​​​​​​Not just unique to England, there are many countries that share St George’s Day. To name but a few traditions in other countries: -

• ​​​​​​​R​​​​oasting a whole lamb is customary in Bulgaria, as well as an early morning walk, as the occasion is seen as ‘a day when evil enchantments can be broken, and a blessed day when the saint blesses the crop and morning dew.’ 
• Also enjoying roast lamb in Croatia and Slovenia, the holiday is considered an important celebration of the return of springtime. 
• In Albania, tradition is to build a fire and play around it. Celebrated a little later, in May, and known as ‘Shen Gjergji’ or ‘Shengjergji’, Albanians celebrate the blessing of God, as well as singing songs about St George. 
• In Catalonia, Spain, the celebration of St George (or Saint Jordi) honours a public holiday similar to that of Valentine’s Day, whereby lovers exchange roses and books, and the streets come alive with Catalonian street food, as well as flower and book sellers. 
• And, have you spotted it? The Barcelona football club badge also features the St George’s cross​​