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In 305 CE, Saint Januarius (San Gennaro), a bishop of the Catholic Church, was martyred during Diocletian’s reign of the Roman Empire. His blood, allegedly, now sits in the Naples cathedral. The blood has solidified. However, it liquifies randomly throughout the year. San Gennaro is the protector and patron saint of Naples. It is believed that he has saved the city from volcano eruptions and plagues.

In December 1631, Mount Vesuvius erupted and the bust (or sometimes head, depending on the version of the story) of San Gennaro as well as a vial of his blood was brought out for a procession. When the solidified blood liquified as it faced the magma, the magma miraculously stopped moving and San Gennaro was credited with saving the city.

Yearly, on September 19, the day he was executed, San Gennaro’s feast day is celebrated. If the blood liquifies on this day, the church bells will ring, and it is considered a sign of protection and a good omen for the city of Naples. Traditionally, women in Naples will spend the day and night prior to the feast praying for the blood to liquify. If the blood does not liquify it is seen as a bad omen; however, nothing tragic has happened yet during the years that the blood didn’t liquify. Whether or not the blood liquifies, Neapolitans still gather to celebrate the Feast.

The day begins at the Cathedral of Naples, where the blood is presented to the public to witness the liquification. Then, there is a religious procession throughout the oldest quarters of Naples.

Can’t make it on September 19? Do not worry. For eight days, the blood is on display in the cathedral and festivities occur throughout the streets of Naples. Vendors sell toys, food, trinkets and sweets for everyone to enjoy. Biscotti as well as lemon and cinnamon cookies are a must-have at this event every year. While in town for the celebration, visit the Treasure of San Gennaro museum, adjacent to the cathedral, for a look at the priceless devotional items sent to honor San Gennaro over the centuries.