August 31, 1250
Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
7-year-old Dominguito del Val is allegedly kidnapped, crucified, killed, and dismembered during a ritualistic murder
According to legends, with the first recorded recounts dating back to 1583, choirboy Dominguito was abducted by a Jew named Albayuceto. He was then taken to a house where he was crucified and tortured before he was murdered. To dispose of his body, he was beheaded and his feet were removed before he was buried. His decomposing corpse was found a few months later.
Due to the likelihood the legend was fabricated to justify anti-semitism in Spain, the Catholic Church does not recognize Dominguito as a saint nor does it observe his feast day.
Horrific history from today:
1888: Jack the Ripper’s first victim (2017)
1932: Police car after shooting (2017)
2010: Manipulated to murder by animal spirits (2017)
Horror-related anniversaries:
Today in Horror History: August 31
Related:
1475: Four men executed for allegedly murdering and beheading child for ritual
