She was born around 284 AD to affluent and devout Christian parents.

Following the death of her parents when she was young, Anysia inherited their wealth. Instead of living a life of luxury, she chose to distribute her riches to the poor, embodying the Christian values of charity and humility. She dedicated herself to a strict lifestyle characterized by fasting, prayer, and vigil.

During her lifetime, Christians faced severe persecution under the Roman Empire, particularly during the reign of Emperor Maximian (286-305 AD). This period saw widespread violence against Christians, with edicts allowing for their execution without punishment. The atmosphere was one of fear and oppression as many were killed simply for their faith.

On her way to church one day, Anysia encountered a pagan soldier at the Cassandriote Gate. The soldier demanded that she accompany him to participate in a pagan sacrifice at a festival dedicated to the sun god. In response to his demands, Anysia firmly resisted him. When he attempted to forcibly remove her veil and drag her away, she displayed remarkable courage by spitting in his face and declaring that “My Lord Jesus Christ forbids you!” This act of defiance enraged the soldier.

In retaliation for her refusal and boldness, the soldier fatally attacked Anysia with his sword. Witnesses gathered around her body expressed their sorrow and outrage over the brutal act committed against an innocent woman due to an unjust edict from Emperor Maximian. After her death, fellow Christians buried her near the city gates where she had been killed. In honor of her martyrdom, they later constructed a chapel over her grave.

Saint Anysia is venerated primarily within the Eastern Orthodox Church in regions influenced by Byzantine culture.