A procession in honor of the Madonna is held only once every five years
Starting in the mid-18th century, processions were held-with some interruptions-in honor of the Madonna. Originally, the festival was celebrated only once every 25 years, but later it was held every five years-and this is how it came to be:
In 1955, the future Pope John XXIII was still Patriarch of Venice (the region's most important spiritual leader). In that capacity, he took part in the procession and was so captivated that he suggested holding the festival every five years. And so it came to pass.
Ever since, the entire town of Caorle commemorates the miraculous apparition of the Madonna from the sea every five years-always in early September, with the exact date determined each time-with a grand procession featuring colorful costumes and decorated boats. The festivities last over a week, and on Sunday, after several Masses, the statue of the Madonna is solemnly carried back to the church across the sea toward evening, accompanied by the local fishermen's boats.
Procession for the Feast of Our Lady
Procession for the Feast of the Madonna