Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia (Church of Sts. Jeremiah and Lucy), Venice

Situated in the Cannaregio district, with a picturesque view of the Grand Canal near the Santa Lucia train station, this significant place of worship houses both exquisite artworks and the mortal remains of the revered Saint Lucy of Syracuse. Celebrated on December 13th, she is regarded as the protector of the eyes by believers. A notable inscription on the exterior facade, facing the Grand Canal, reads: "Lucia Virgin of Syracuse rests in this temple. May she inspire light and peace to Italy and the world".

Despite ongoing appeals from the city of Syracuse, the saint's remains have permanently resided in Venice for centuries, despite historical challenges. The chapel that safeguards the revered saint was constructed using materials salvaged from the Palladian church of Santa Lucia, which was demolished in 1861 to make way for the current Santa Lucia railway station, retaining the church's name. The saint's remains were then transferred to their current reliquary in 1863.

One incident that remains vivid in the memory of Venetians is the theft of Saint Lucy's remains in 1981. In a swift and armed operation, criminals stole the sacred relics, demanding a ransom. Providentially, the police successfully recovered the remains on the exact day of her celebration, December 13th of the same year. Each year, as the feast day of Saint Lucy approaches, the celebrations intensify, attracting numerous visitors who offer prayers and light candles in honor of the esteemed saint.