Virdimura facts for kids

Virdimura was an amazing Jewish doctor from Sicily, an island in Italy, way back in the 1300s. She was super special because she was the very first woman to officially get a license to practice medicine there!

Who Was Virdimura?

Not a lot is known about Virdimura's early life. We do know she was a Jewish woman who lived in a city called Catania in Sicily during the 14th century.

She learned about medicine, possibly from her husband, Pasquale de Medico. He was also thought to be a doctor in Catania. We don't know if he was Jewish or not.

Becoming a Doctor

On November 7, 1376, Virdimura achieved something incredible. She got a special permission from King Frederick to practice medicine all over Sicily! The doctors who worked for the king even approved her.

To get this license, Virdimura had to take exams. Her patients also spoke highly of her. The official papers said that the examiners considered "the praise universally given her." This means everyone thought she was a great doctor!

Because of this, she became the first woman doctor in Sicily to have this official title. After getting her license, she traveled around Sicily, helping many people.

Helping Everyone

Virdimura was especially kind to people who were poor or had disabilities. She charged them less for her services than other male doctors at the time. This also likely meant she treated both women and men, and people of all backgrounds, including Jewish people and non-Jewish people.

Virdimura's Lasting Impact

Virdimura's legacy lives on today! There's an award called the International Virdimura Award. It's given to doctors who show great kindness and help people in need, just like she did.

In 2020, a square in Catania, in the San Giovanni Galermo area, was also named in her honor. It's a way to remember her important contributions.