Stigmata in the History: Between Faith, Mysticism and Science

Stigmata are one of the most ancient and fascinating mysteries of the Christian religion. The word “stigmata” derives by the Greek “stigma”, that means sign, mark. Classically, stigmata are the sores inflicted on Jesus Christ during his passion and crucifixion. Today, the term stigmatized has been extended to designate several cases of individuals, who show skin sores similar to those of Christ. The Authors report a brief history of stigmata, trying to give an explanation to such a fascinating phenomenon.