One of the most important attraction of Naples is the Dome of Naples (il Duomo di San Gennaro) with the chapel that contains Saint Gennaro’s congealed blood, which miraculously liquefies three times annually. If the blood does not liquefy, the city will have bad luck and this would cause tragedy for Naples and its surroundings, however when the blood miracle occurs, no disaster is expected in the near future.
For instance in 1980, before the harsh earthquake took its toll on 2000 lives, the blood didn’t liquefy.
This is one of the most important Neapolitans belief and takes place in September 19th, every year since the 17th of August 1389.

In the beginning, a procession takes place and holy figures are carried through Spaccanapoli. The silver bust of San Gennaro leads the procession.
Arrived in the Dome of Naples the centuries-old ritual occurs: the Saint’s silver bust is positioned next to the altar and the ampoule with blood is shown to the people by the Bishop and then slowly turned until the blood liquefies and then the cathedral’s bells ring. The crowd starts pushing its way through to kiss the ampoule of blood. This overcrowded ceremony is usually attended by spiritual authorities, political dignitaries and hundreds of believers.