Saint Catherine of Siena was a 14th-century Italian mystic and a member of the Dominican Order. Born in 1347, she is best known for her deep spiritual writings and her role in the Catholic Church. Catherine experienced visions and had a strong commitment to prayer, which led her to become a prominent figure in the religious community. She played a significant role in the politics of her time, advocating for the return of the papacy to Rome from Avignon. Canonized in 1461, Saint Catherine is recognized as a Doctor of the Church and is the patron saint of Italy and of the sick.