St. George the Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer, being tortured on the wheel for Christ (source)
Pilgrims to the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George (seat of the Patriarch of Alexandria) can have the opportunity to visit the purported prison where St. George the Trophy-bearer was held by the Emperor Diocletian, the chains that bound him, and some of the instruments of torture, including the wheel that he was tied to, but soon freed from by an Angel. Below are photos from the Greek site Agioritikovima and also from Mystagogy (see the respective links for more info).
I post this not at all to emphasize anything masochistic or macabre. The great sufferings of the Martyrs of Christ reveal their great love for Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life, and from their great love for Him, they would sacrifice anything and endure everything. This is especially poignant, as there are Christians still today who are giving their lives for Christ throughout the world. May the example of the Martyrs inspire us all, whether in a small or great way, to sacrifice and live lives pleasing to Christ, Who suffered for us all and rose from the dead. To Him be glory and dominion unto the ages. Amen.
The wheel that St. George was tortured on (source)
Close-up on some of the instruments of St. George's torture (source)
The chains that bound St. George in prison (source)
Be entreated, O Lord, by the sufferings endured for You by the Saints, and we pray You, heal all our pain.
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs, He has granted life! Truly the Lord is risen!
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