How many times does the miracle of the blood of San Gennaro occur? The dates
The miracle of the blood of San Gennaro is one of the most famous and fascinating religious events linked to the city of Naples. The phenomenon, which attracts the attention of the faithful and the curious every year, occurs on three specific occasions, offering a unique link between faith, history and mystery. But how many times does the miracle actually occur, and what are its main dates?
The three dates of the miracle of San Gennaro
The miracle of the liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro is repeated three times a year. Here are the moments when the faithful gather in the Cathedral of Naples to witness the phenomenon:
- The first Saturday in May: A date dedicated to the memory of the translation of the saint's relics.
- The 19 SeptemberThe main festival is celebrated in honor of San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples and Campania. The anniversary coincides with the beheading of the saint, which occurred in 302 AD
- The December 16This anniversary is linked to the "secular miracle", which recalls the eruption of Vesuvius in 1631, stopped by the intercession of the saint.
Each time, the Cathedral of Naples becomes the center of a solemn celebration, which sees the participation of thousands of people. The crucial moment is when the Abbot Treasurer exposes the ampoule containing the supposed blood of the saint, awaiting its liquefaction.
Why is the miracle so important?
The miracle is considered a good omen for Naples. The failure of the blood to liquefy is often interpreted as a harbinger of misfortune or difficulty for the city. For this reason, the event is awaited with great trepidation and involves not only the faithful, but also those who follow the tradition out of curiosity or for its symbolic value.
Scientific Hypotheses on Blood Liquefaction
Despite the faith of believers, the phenomenon has aroused the interest of the scientific community, which has tried to give a rational explanation to the liquefaction. A 1991 study, conducted by CICAP, hypothesized that the contents of the ampoule may be a thixotropic substance. This property allows the compound to change from solid to liquid when shaken or subjected to motion.
No definitive analysis has ever been carried out directly on the blood contained in the vials, leaving room for interpretations, doubts and an aura of mystery that continues to fuel the fascination of this event.
A phenomenon between faith and tradition
The miracle of the blood of San Gennaro is much more than a simple religious event: it represents a moment of unity for Naples, a tradition that spans the centuries and connects the city to the figure of its patron saint. Whether it is an authentic miracle or a scientifically explainable phenomenon, the liquefaction of blood remains an indelible symbol of Neapolitan culture and spirituality.