Saint Peter Nolasco was a Spanish religious figure born in 1189 in Barcelona. He is best known for founding the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, also known as the Mercedarians, in 1218. This order was dedicated to rescuing Christian captives from Muslim territories during the Middle Ages. Nolasco's work focused on helping those imprisoned for their faith, and he often used his own resources to secure their freedom. He was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1628, and his feast day is celebrated on January 28. His legacy continues through the ongoing work of the Mercedarians.