This morning, in Naples, the long-awaited “secular miracle” was repeated: at 9.13, the blood of San Gennaro melted, bringing a wave of joy among those present. Since the first light of dawn, many people have gathered with devotion in the Cathedral of Naples, ready to once again experience this one of the most incredible wonders that continue to move the heart of the city.
December 16th is a special day, different from the others, above all due to its strong historical connotation. Unlike the traditional celebrations of the martyrdom of San Gennaro (19 September) and the translation of his remains (the Saturday preceding the first Sunday of May), this date is linked to an event that marked the history of the Neapolitans.
In fact, on 16 December 1631, Vesuvius reawakened after three centuries of inactivity, giving rise to a devastating eruption that destroyed several localities in the area, including Portici, Resina (today Ercolano) and Torre del Greco.
At that dramatic moment, the Neapolitans turned to San Gennaro, asking for his intercession to save the city.
The statue of the Saint was carried in procession to the Ponte della Maddalena, which at the time marked the eastern entrance to Naples. And right there, the lava suddenly stopped, sparing the city. From that day, San Gennaro officially became the savior of Naples and December 16 is remembered as the day his protection was invoked and responded with a miracle that shaped the faith and history of the city.
An event that is repeated every year, in the wake of hope and faith, which – despite scientific limits – continues to be a living testimony of how popular devotion and history are intertwined, giving Naples a tradition that goes far beyond religion, also touching the heart of the city’s culture and identity.
