Important attraction of the City of Naples is the Dome of Naples (il Duomo di San Gennaro) with the chapel that contains Saint Gennaro’s congealed blood, which miraculously liquefies three times annually. According to the tradition, if the blood should fail to liquefy, the city will have a bad luck. For instance in 1980 before the harsh earthquake took its toll on 2000 lives, the blood didn’t liquefy.
This is one of the most important Napolitans belief and takes place in September 19th, every year since the first time in the 1389 August 17th
In the beginning a procession takes place, where by holy figures are carried through Spaccanapoli. The silver bust of San Gennaro leads the procession.
Arrived in the Dome of Naples the centuries-old ritual takes place: the Saint’s silver bust is positioned next to the altar and the ampoule with blood is shown to the faithful by the Bishop and then slowly turned until the blood liquefies and then the cathedral’s bells ring. The crowd starts pushing its way through to kiss the ampoule of blood. This overcrowded service is attended by spiritual authorities, political dignitaries and hundreds of anticipating believers.
According to the people, when this blood miracle takes place, no disaster is expected in the near future. For most of the natives of Naples the service has an oracle character. The absence of the miracle will cause tragedy for Naples and its surroundings.
The miracle is an unique phenomenon!!!!
Trekking and Hiking Tour
