Italy is renowned for their “Festa's” that are celebrated up and down the country throughout the year, each one unique and worth experiencing.  So it goes without saying that the most religious and important of all must not be missed and we suggest you ensure you add this to your Bucket List now; the Festival of San Gennaro in Naples! 

San Gennaro was persecuted and beheaded back in 305AD for being a Christian and later became the Patron Saint of Naples.  The splendid Gothic Cathedral is dedicated to him and holds the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro; a collection of his relics including two sealed vials of his blood.

It is said that when he died, a woman collected some of his blood and 8 days later it liquefied.  So on the 19th September each year, thousands fill the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo to witness the Cardinal lead the procession holding the vials, in the hope that the blood turns to liquid; if it does the city is blessed for the following year.  Should it not, it is a sign of a bad omen to fall upon Napoli. 

Of course the Italians will always follow any religious event with a celebration, and for 8 days after the 19th, Naples' streets are alive with processions and stalls of food, sweets and local trinkets.

Visit the Festa di San Gennaro and stay at one of our many homes on the Neapolitan Riviera.