The Festival of Madonna della Salute in Venice, celebrated each year on 21st November, is both a religious and historical occasion that commemorates the city’s deliverance from the plague of 1630-1631.
The festival’s roots lie in a time of deep crisis when northern Italy, including Venice, was ravaged by one of the most severe plague epidemics in history. Particularly devastating was the impact on the city of Mantova (Mantua), which, seeking aid, turned to Venice. In a desperate attempt to help, Venice agreed to send food and supplies via the river, but disaster struck when a carpenter working on the recovery site unknowingly carried the infection, spreading it to Venice.
The epidemic spread quickly, and within two weeks, the death toll had reached hundreds. By the end of the winter of 1631, Venice was facing the terrifying prospect of being completely wiped out. The death toll within 15 months reached 46,000.
Venice turns to the Madonna
With the situation beyond human control, the people of Venice turned to their faith. Processions were held, and survivors — about 10,000 Venetians — marched around Piazza San Marco for three days and nights, carrying torches and votive statues in a desperate plea to the Virgin Mary for salvation. During this time, the Doge made a vow: if the city was saved, a temple of extraordinary beauty and size would be built in her honour.
Miraculously, the plague began to subside, and within weeks, the epidemic was finally defeated. In fulfilment of the vow, the Venetian government launched a public competition for architects to design a grand church. The competition was won by Baldassare Longhena, a young architect who would become a prominent figure in the Baroque style of architecture. Longhena’s design for the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, with its majestic dome and striking façade, symbolized the triumph of faith and the resilience of the Venetian people.
Also read: 10 Facts aboout Venice
Constructing the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
Construction of the basilica began in 1631, and the building was completed in 1687, taking nearly 20 years to finish. It was consecrated on 21st November, hence the official day of the Festival of theMadonna della Salute.
Over a million wooden piles anchor the basilica to the Venetian lagoon. As one of Venice’s most impressive Baroque landmarks, it has captured the imagination of many renowned painters, including Canaletto, Turner, and Guardi. The church’s interior features a vast octagonal space beneath a grand dome, surrounded by eight chapels. Notable works inside include paintings by Titian and Tintoretto, as well as a striking statue group by Flemish sculptor Josse de Corte, depicting the Virgin and Child driving away the plague.
The basilica, located at the entrance to the Grand Canal, is an iconic structure in Venice. It is a pilgrimage destination for many who continue to honour the city’s miraculous escape from the plague.
During the Festival of Madonna della Salute
On this day each year, Venetians and visitors participate in the festival’s traditions, including a pilgrimage across a temporary pontoon bridge that spans the Grand Canal. This bridge is set up especially for the event, connecting the historic district of San Marco to the basilica in Dorsoduro.
It is customary for Venetians to walk across the bridge to offer prayers and light candles, expressing gratitude for the city’s protection. The day is also marked by religious services at the basilica, led by the Patriarch of Venice. Along with the solemn processions, the streets near the church are filled with stalls offering traditional Venetian food.
