The Madonna della Salute feast-day
The Madonna della Salute feast-day refers to the plague that, in the XVII century, killed one third of the Venetian population. In 1630 the government of the Republic of Venice made a vow to build a sumptuous church dedicated to the Madonna della Salute (which means both Health and Salvation), asking the Virgin her intercession for the deliverance of Venice from the plague. The church was designed by B. Longhena and is the most important baroque Church in Venice.
The feast: Every year, on November 21st, Venetians cross a pontoon bridge which links the Church to the city centre, to visit the Salute and pray to the Holy Virgin for their health. Outside the Church many stands sell candles of all sizes and also candies, pancakes, toy balloons and other gadgets creating a village festival atmosphere.
