Gemma Galgani experiences stigmata in Lucca

Background. Gemma Galgani, known as Gemma of Lucca, was an Italian mystic who fell seriously ill in 1898 and 1899, suffering from osteitis of the lumbar vertebrae and an ear infection, and losing the use of her legs, but recovered. Lucca is a city and comune in Tuscany, Central Italy, on the Serchio River; the epithet associates Galgani with the city, though the supplied passages do not state that the reported stigmata occurred there.

Reported Stigmata. According to a biography by her spiritual director, Germano Ruoppolo, Galgani began to manifest stigmata on 8 June 1899, at the age of 21. These bodily wounds, scars, and pain are described in Roman Catholicism as appearing in locations corresponding to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ, such as the hands, wrists, and feet.

Medical Interpretation. Psychologist Donovan Rawcliffe argued that Galgani's stigmata were "self-inflicted wounds of a major hysteric." This perspective contrasts with accounts from her immediate circle, including her spiritual director and members of the Giannini family, who attested to the presence of continuous wounds that fully pierced her palms.