This is the story of Saint Rock! (“Roch,” “Rocco”)!

The Saints are the Sinners who Keep on Trying - Robert Louis Stevenson

This is the story of Saint Rock! (“Roch,” “Rocco”)!

Patron Saint Dog Lovers
Invoked against rabies and for Good Health!

Rock's tory took place long ago. Rock was born into a life of privilege and wealth but lost his parents at a very early age. Rock gave away everything he owned and went on a Pilgrimage to Rome. It seemed like a plague was traveling with Rock, and he took care of the sick throughout his journey. Rock went to Piacenza and it was there where he was struck down and became very ill. Rock believed he was going to die and went into the woods to pass away quietly. A dog befriended him and brought Rock snacks from its master's table. Rock eventually recovered and returned to town. Because he had lost so much weight from being frail and sick, Rock was unrecognizable. He was put in a dungeon since he was believed to be a spy. After his death, his cross-shaped birthmark was discovered by his family and many mourned the mistake that had been made. Rock had spent his final years in prison because of the mistaken belief that he was a spy. In Europe, homeowners often put "VSR" on the front of their doors. It was believed that writing the initials of "Viva Saint Rock" would keep cholera away. In art, Rock is usually shown with a dog at his side, as he is on our Saint Rock medal.

© 2000

Wear this medal
and then share it with
someone you love!

Each SfS medal is imported from Italy,
painted by hand in
New Orleans, Louisiana,
and is a one-of-a-kind original.