SAINT ELIGIUS

Éloi of Noyon, also known as Saint Éloi, was born around 588 near Limoges. Due to his renown in the field of goldsmithing, he was chosen to adorn the royal throne of King Clotaire with gold ornaments and precious stones. However, Éloi managed to create two thrones with the amount of gold initially intended for only one, showcasing his remarkable integrity. In recognition, King Dagobert appointed Éloi as one of his ministerial advisors. In 633, he entered the clergy and later became the bishop of Noyon. Throughout his life, Éloi worked for the betterment of society. Thus, on December 1st, the day of his death, goldsmiths, metallurgists, and other professions related to metalwork and forging celebrate Saint Éloi as their patron saint. Railway workers, as professionals working with metals in the construction and maintenance of railway tracks, have sometimes adopted Saint Éloi as their patron saint due to his association with metalworking trades. He is most often depicted with a hammer and an anvil.