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It is an ancient seafaring tradition and perhaps one of the most heartfelt events of the summer, held every year on the second weekend of July.
On Saturday 11 July 2026, after Holy Mass, the statue of the Madonnina is carried out of the little church by the sea and the procession to the thousand-year-old cathedral begins. When the statue enters Piazza Vescovado the bell tower “catches fire” to greet her. Of course it is not a real fire: the bell tower is lit up with fireworks in memory of the fire that destroyed the sanctuary by the sea and the statue of the Madonnina in 1923. The effect is stunning and very distinctive, and every year it leaves worshippers and tourists open-mouthed. With the bell tower glowing fiery red, the Madonna enters the cathedral amid the prayers and songs of the faithful.
The next day the Madonna dell’Angelo returns to her home, the sanctuary by the sea. After Holy Mass in the cathedral the statue passes through the doors and the bell tower “catches fire” once again to say goodbye.
See you on Saturday 11 July 2026 and Sunday 12 July 2026 in Piazza Vescovado after the 9 pm Holy Mass.
An evocative event not to be missed!
Events that return every year: Feast of the Madonna, The burning of the bell tower
