Therefore, based on the tradition that started in the 19th century, it is said that Saint Markella was born and lived in Volissos, Chios, Greece.

At a young age, her mother died and St. Markella continued to study the Bible, pray to God and live a life according to what she was taught.

Around the time of her eighteenth birthday, the virtuous St. Markella had to flee the fury of her violent father.

By another version, the problem was that St. Markella's father was consumed with incestuous lust for her, and she fled in horror when he declared his intentions.

It is further believed that as she was injured, she prayed to Jesus - her final moments spent in prayer requesting that the rocks would open for her to hide from her father and this happened.

If a pilgrim's faith is strong, a local tradition is that the water in the rock-pool will feel extremely warm to touch.