The Procession of the Virgin is an annual religious event in Venice that takes place every year on the first Sunday of July. It begins with a procession of priests, clergy, and members of the Venetian nobility around Piazza San Marco. The procession stops at various churches and monuments throughout the city before culminating at Piazza San Marco where a large crowd gathers to witness it.
At the center of this procession is a gilded wooden statue known as “La Madonna della Salute” or “Our Lady of Health”. This statue was originally given to Venice by Pope Alexander VII in 1656 as part of his vow for protection against plague outbreaks. Since then, La Madonna has been carried through the streets each year as part of an elaborate ritual that includes prayers and hymns from participants dressed in traditional garments.
After reaching its final destination at Piazza San Marco, La Madonna is placed atop a special altar adorned with flowers and candles. A Mass is held followed by speeches from civic leaders who pledge their loyalty to Venice’s patron saint, Saint Mark. The entire ceremony concludes with fireworks over the piazza which symbolizes joyous celebration and reaffirmation of faith among Venetians and visitors alike.