Cecilia was a member a noble family of Rome and a follower of Christ. Her parents forced her to marry a noble man named Valerian. In the evening of her wedding day, with music ringing on her ears, Cecilia renewed her vow by which she had consecrated her virginity to God. “Pure be my heart and undefiled my body; for I have a spouse you do not know, an angel of my Lord.” This is the reason why she is honored as a Patroness of music.

Cecilia converted her husband to the faith of Christ. Because Valerian helped Cecilia in her charity towards the poor, he was put to death. Cecilia refused to sacrifice to the gods. The judge condemned her to smother by steam but God protected Cecilia. Then, the judge ordered to kill her with the sword. Cecilia was struck three times but her head was not cut off. She fell down, badly wounded, and for three days she remained alive. This happened in 117.

Cecilia was buried in the catacombs. Her grave was discovered in 817, and her body was placed in the church of St. Cecilia in Rome. In 1599, when her tomb was opened, her body was found incorrupt.