The Mystical ‘Miracle’ of San Gennaro: A Tradition Continues in Napoli
Experience the awe-inspiring moment when the dried blood of Naples’ third-century patron saint Gennaro miraculously liquefies at the city’s cathedral, a phenomenon that repeats itself 17 centuries after the saint’s martyrdom.
On specific dates each year – 19 September, 16 December, and the first Saturday in May – witness the miraculous liquefaction of the blood preserved in a glass ampoule at the Basilica di Santa Chiara in Naples.
Crowds gather to witness this sacred event, partaking in ancient traditions dating back to the 19th century, where prayers and litanies are chanted by the faithful, known as the “relatives” of S. Gennaro.
Who was S. Gennaro?
S. Gennaro, also known as St Januarius, was a bishop of Benevento in the third century, martyred by beheading during the Christian persecution under Emperor Diocletian around 305 AD. His relics include bones and blood preserved at the cathedral in Naples.
Legend has it that the blood of S. Gennaro must liquefy to avert impending disasters, believed by superstitious Neapolitans to signal war, famine, or disease if it fails to do so.
This mystical occurrence has been linked to historical events, with the blood’s failure to liquefy on certain dates preceding catastrophic events, adding to the fervor and faith surrounding this annual spectacle.
While the Catholic Church supports the celebrations, the ‘miracle’ remains unexplained, with the sealed vial of blood preventing scientific research into the phenomenon.
Join the Neapolitans in venerating their patron saint, seeking protection and guidance through this centuries-old tradition that continues to captivate believers and skeptics alike.
