Mary Magdalene is a figure from the Gospels who has long been a source of controversy for generations of popes. Initially, she was associated with a nameless penitent woman, often believed to have been a prostitute who converted and followed Christ. Although the Gospel never mentions her name, this made her an ideal character for preachers, symbolizing penitence. However, her story was also used to explain why women were denied full rights in the Church, based on the notion that they were inherently sinful. According to legend, after witnessing Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, Mary Magdalene retreated to live an ascetic life in the desert, devoting herself to prayer and fasting. Unconcerned with worldly possessions, she wore the same veils until they disintegrated. To protect her modesty, her body hair miraculously grew in abundance, symbolizing her spiritual transformation.
