Pharaildis was an 8th-century virgin from the Brabant region who is recognized as the patron saint of Ghent. Born to the Duke of Lorraine, she was raised by Gertrude of Nivelles. Despite a private vow of virginity, she was forced into a marriage with a nobleman. Following the death of her husband, she remained a virgin and devoted her life to charitable works. She lived to the age of ninety and passed away in Bruay-sur-l'Escaut.